Wimbledon 2023: Unexpected Crossovers and Star-Studded Watch Parties
This year's Wimbledon Championships witnessed an array of unexpected crossovers and star-studded watch parties, adding a touch of glamour and excitement to the prestigious tennis tournament.
Among the notable attendees were rapper Lil Wayne, who enthusiastically cheered on cult favorite Jelena Ostapenko, and singer P!nk, who met with both the Ladies finalists. However, it was the presence of NBA star Jimmy Butler and Formula 1 driver Lando Norris that sparked a social media frenzy.
The Miami Heat small forward, a renowned tennis enthusiast, and the McLaren driver hosted their own mini-watch party to witness Carlos Alcaraz's second Wimbledon triumph. Butler shared an Instagram Story video capturing their jubilant celebration, with Norris holding up a victory sign.
"Two in a row, Carlitos! Vamos!" Butler exclaimed.
The pair also shared relatable snaps of their viewing experience, huddled together and watching Alcaraz's straight sets victory over Novak Djokovic on the small screen of an iPhone. Butler has been a regular fixture at tennis matches, particularly as an Alcaraz fan, having witnessed his performances at various tournaments over the years.
On Sunday, Butler and Norris watched the action live from Berlin, where they were attending the 2024 European Championship final between Spain and England. They weren't the only high-profile figures tuning in to the year's most expensive sporting event.
Rafael Nadal, the 22-time Grand Slam champion, watched from Bastad, Sweden, where he was preparing for his first competition in nearly 20 years ahead of the Olympics. Nadal heaped praise on the 21-year-old Alcaraz, writing in Spanish:
"Congratulations Carlos!!!! What a great moment, another great one. Big hug!!!!"
Alcaraz himself expressed his disbelief hours after securing his fourth Grand Slam title, becoming the sixth man in the Open Era to win Roland Garros and Wimbledon in the same year. His opponent, Djokovic, acknowledged Alcaraz's superiority, vowing to "rise and learn and get stronger."
Messages of support and admiration poured in from across the sports world, including Alcaraz's beloved soccer team Real Madrid and numerous peers and legends on the ATP and WTA Tours.
Tags: #Wimbledon2023, #UnexpectedCrossovers, #JimmyButler, #LandoNorris, #CarlosAlcaraz
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