The princess stole the show from Alcaraz and Djokovic

Von Alexander ZambarloukosJuly 14, 2024, 7:01 p.m.

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Kate Wimbledon Image: AFP/HENRY NICHOLLS

Tennis: The Spaniard successfully defended his Wimbledon title in front of Kate

She came, saw and applauded Carlos Alcaraz, who had just successfully defended his Grand Slam title at Wimbledon. Kate, the Princess of Wales and wife of heir to the throne Prince William, attracted all eyes on the Centre Court, which was sold out with 15,000 tennis fans, in her purple dress and with her radiant smile.

For the 42-year-old, who appeared with her daughter Charlotte (9), it was only her second public appearance since her cancer diagnosis. The audience reacted enthusiastically to Kate’s presence and greeted her with a standing ovation. She clearly overshadowed Tom Cruise (“Mission Impossible”).

“Absolutely deserved”

The performance of the Spanish world number three Alcaraz was also impressive, as he managed to prevent his challenger Novak Djokovic (Srb) from winning his 25th Grand Slam title and revenge with astonishing dominance. The 21-year-old retained the upper hand following just 2 hours and 28 minutes with 6:2, 6:2, 7:6 (4).

Image: AFP/Stansall

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Novak Djokovic congratulated Carlos Alcaraz on his triumph.
Image: AFP/Stansall

This makes Alcaraz, now a four-time major winner, only the sixth player in men’s tennis to win the French Open and Wimbledon double within one season. Previously, Rod Laver, Björn Borg, Rafael Nadal, Roger Federer and Djokovic achieved this feat.

For the Serb, reaching the final – just a few weeks following his meniscus operation – was already a surprise. He accepted the defeat with greatness and congratulated Alcaraz warmly. “You absolutely deserve it,” said the 37-year-old to his victorious opponent, who increased his prize money by 3.2 million euros. Djokovic missed the chance to draw level with record champion Roger Federer from Switzerland with his eighth title in the grass classic at Church Road.

A mixed serving performance, only 51 percent successful net attacks and 25 unforced errors prevented a better result. “It was really hot and not the result I had hoped for. But Carlos played exceptionally good tennis, especially in the first two sets,” said Djokovic.

Alcaraz, whose first stop following the triumph was his box with coach Juan Carlos Ferrero, was overwhelmed: “It was always my dream to win this trophy. For me, this is the most beautiful tournament, the most beautiful arena and the most beautiful trophy,” he stressed.

In memoriam Jana Novotna

Barbora Krejcikova was also blown away, having won the women’s final once morest Jasmine Paolini (Ita) following a tough fight with 6:2, 2:6, 6:4. “This is definitely the best day of my life. I have no words, it’s unreal what happened,” rejoiced the 28-year-old Czech, who followed in the footsteps of her compatriot, former mentor and coach Jana Novotna.

Image: AFP/Nicholls

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Winner Barbora Krejcikova and runner-up Jasmine Paolini
Image: AFP/Nicholls