Federer Steals Spotlight from Royal Box as Djokovic Battles into Wimbledon Quarters.
Eight-time Wimbledon champion Roger Federer made his first appearance at SW19 this season on Monday, July 7, drawing a thunderous reception as he took his seat in the Royal Box to watch Novak Djokovic’s fourth-round clash against Australia’s Alex de Minaur.
Dressed immaculately in a purple blazer and black sunglasses, the Swiss legend—winner of 20 Grand Slam titles—was accompanied by his wife and former tennis player, Mirka Federer. It was a rare public appearance for Federer, whose last Wimbledon title came in 2017. He reached the final again in 2019 before retiring from professional tennis in 2022.
Federer’s presence added a layer of gravitas to Centre Court as Djokovic, chasing his 24th Grand Slam, struggled early in the match. The Serb lost the opening set 1-6 but recovered to level the contest 6-4 in the second, with Federer watching intently from the VIP enclosure.
The Royal Box on Monday was filled with sporting royalty. England cricket legend James Anderson was seen in conversation with Federer during the match, while England batter Joe Root—fresh off the England vs India Test in Birmingham—was also in attendance.
Brian Lara Joins the Wimbledon Glamour Earlier in the Week
Earlier in the tournament, West Indies cricket great Brian Lara made a stylish appearance in the Royal Box, donning a grey suit and blue tie. The Test cricket record-holder praised tennis stars Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner, noting Alcaraz’s grit in the French Open final and predicting a bright future for both players.
Asked who he’d pick as a doubles partner, Lara named World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka, citing her power and presence on court.
Cobolli Breaks Through
Elsewhere on Monday, 23-year-old Italian Flavio Cobolli stunned former Wimbledon finalist Marin Cilic to advance to his first Grand Slam quarter-final. The emotional moment was capped by scenes in the stands as Cobolli’s father was seen in tears after his son’s milestone victory.
Comments are closed.