Wimbledon is off to a roaring start with top seed Iga Swiatek cruising to the next round of the championship, and Novak Djokovic taking on Pedro Cachin in the Centre court to start off his campaign in defense of his title. The All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club has seen many superstars and sports icons from different parts of the world make an appearance over the years.
Hence, it wasn’t surprising to see French soccer sensation Kylian Mbappe make an appearance on the first day itself. It wasn’t just a regular appearance though, because Mbappe went from being a regular spectator to calling Djokovic’s lines at Wimbledon!
Did Mbappe go from watching Novak at Roland Garros to calling his lines at Wimbledon? 🧐🧐🧐 pic.twitter.com/84qQVKmzCV
— US Open Tennis (@usopen) July 3, 2023
This has left a lot of fans bewildered, as the French star stood behind Novak and became his ball boy.
Legends recognize legends 🔥🔥🔥🔥 #Wimbledon
— Miss Sunshine (@mrthsunshine) July 3, 2023
is bappé at wimbledon?
— Germain Sampras (@guigui1984) July 3, 2023
Stop💀 football twitter will come for you🤣
— 🐊div (@teamidemo) July 3, 2023
It was indeed a funny moment for fans from both sporting worlds.
Kylian Mbappe’s love for tennis goes way back
The Paris Saint Germain star has openly spoken of his admiration for Rafael Nadal in the past. It’s not surprising that he took inspiration from players like Nadal himself, and Roger Federer during his formative years, watching them create history on the tennis court.
Back in 2017, the soccer star had expressed his desire to meet his idol, “It’s Nadal who really fascinates me. I didn’t have the opportunity to meet him, but I would like to.” He eventually did get to meet him a year later in 2018.
In a separate interview, he spoke highly of both players. “I no longer have idols, but I still admire those who have marked the history of the sport, including in other disciplines. I know what their exploits represent in terms of sacrifice, of effort.” said Mbappe.
“At Roland Garros, where I love to go, I had the opportunity to chat with Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal. I admire these champions who have been able to stay on top for many years. It’s not for everyone to have such consistency,” added Mbappe.
Kylian Mbappe’s love for tennis runs deep and it’s safe to assume that in the coming years, his face will stand out among a sea of faces from time to time.
