BRATISLAVA
Miss the latest tennis buzz? Let’s take a look at what happened this past week on social media.
One’s social life takes a massive hit from a young age onwards when they full commit to sports and it’s often difficult to find extra time for others. Just ask Denis Shapovalov, who’s still waiting to hear back from Félix Auger-Aliassime about dinner plans, apparently.
Still waiting on the dinner @felixtennis 😂 https://t.co/GNI1U7nH6O
— Denis Shapovalov (@denis_shapo) May 15, 2019
The WTA rolled out their new marketing campaign “It Takes” on Monday. This celebrates the spirit, diversity and authenticity that WTA tennis has to offer.
Over 140 players, legends and tournament explained what drives them to compete at a high level in tennis. Canadian Gabriela Dabrowski got a chance to participate in the campaign and, might I add, picked a great word.
#ItTakesIntegrity. What does that represent in the world we live in? Integrity is choosing to think & act based on values rather than personal gain. It means telling the truth, no matter how hard it is. Integrity is doing the right thing even when no one is watching. #ItTakesWTA pic.twitter.com/n2NBf2Ybyd
— Gaby Dabrowski (@GabyDabrowski) May 13, 2019
A heartwarming moment in sports is the interaction athletes have with fans, and Denis Shapovalov had a chance to experience this with some kids in Italy.
DEFINITELY moment that none of them will forget!
A popular man wherever he goes 😍
Watch @denis_shapo live now on @TennisTV 👊@InteBNLdItalia | #ibi19 pic.twitter.com/ITxO9a6Yao
— ATP Tour (@atptour) May 13, 2019
Speaking of athletes and their fans…. during doubles action in Rome, Alexander “Sascha” Zverev’s smash hit a young girl in the stands. The 22-year-old cheered her up, however, by putting one on his headbands on her head.
Adorable? ✅
After a long hard day, nothing beats cuddling with a pet. No matter if you’re a cat or dog person, you will appreciate this photo form Genie Bouchard and her new little friend.
Serena Williams participated in her first event of the clay season at the Internazionali BNL d’Italia. Prior to her first match, she had an interview with longtime friend Prakash Amritraj. Let’s just say these two had a couple laughs!
"Can you like not be so serious?" 🤣🤣🤣
See what it's like behind-the-scenes when friends @SerenaWilliams and @PrakashAmritraj try to do an interview together. #IBI19 pic.twitter.com/N9DLlrGXcR
— Tennis Channel (@TennisChannel) May 13, 2019
Andy Murray is a KNIGHT ⚔! The three-time Grand Slam received his knighthood at Buckingham Palace by Prince Charles earlier in the week. His mom, Judy Murray, posted this epic picture on twitter to mark the occasion.
The day before this, the Brit celebrated his 32nd birthday! Not a bad gift, eh?
#knighthood. pic.twitter.com/onvTIKWuRT
— judy murray (@JudyMurray) May 16, 2019
We all need to stop and enjoy the moment sometimes, especially tennis players! 2015 Rogers Cup champion Belinda Bencic and Estonian No. 1 Anett Kontaveit took some times to breath in the stunning sights of Rome this week.
There are highs and lows throughout a career, but no matter if you’re in a slump or on fire, maintaining the same attitude is key. Aryna Sabalenka understands the process and being positive.
Trust us when we say that ball kids work some LONG hours throughout a tournament and help the game’s stars while they’re on court. Sometimes those big stars repay the favour – like Novak Djokovic did after he won the Mutua Madrid Open last week.
The 31-year-old’s 33rd ATP Masters 1000 title tied Rafael Nadal for the most all-time!
