Tennis

Yannick Noah, the legendary French tennis player who triumphed at the 1983 French Open, has been appointed as the new captain of Team Europe for the prestigious Laver Cup in 2025. Noah will succeed Bjorn Borg, who has led the European team since the tournament's inception in 2017.Noah's appointment marks a significant moment for French tennis, as he becomes the first Frenchman to captain Team Europe in the Laver Cup. His illustrious career, which saw him reach a career-high ranking of No. 3 in the ATP rankings and win the French Open, makes him an ideal choice for the role.Noah's leadership qualities have been evident throughout his career. He captained the French Davis Cup team to victory in 1991 and 1996, and also guided the French Billie Jean King Cup team to the title in 1997. His ability to inspire and motivate players will be crucial in leading Team Europe to success in 2025.The Laver Cup is a unique event that pits Team Europe against Team World, featuring some of the greatest tennis players of all time. The tournament has quickly become a fan favorite, showcasing the highest level of tennis competition and camaraderie among the players.Noah's appointment as captain of Team Europe is a testament to his enduring legacy in the sport. His passion for tennis and his commitment to excellence will undoubtedly benefit the European team in their quest for victory in 2025.

Forty-one years after Yannick Noah's historic Roland Garros triumph, his son, Joakim Noah, made a symbolic appearance on the Parisian courts through the attire of American tennis star Frances Tiafoe.Tiafoe, seeded 25th at the clay-court major, donned Joakim's Chicago Bulls jersey during a pre-tournament practice session, coinciding with the annual kids' day at Roland Garros, named in Yannick Noah's honor.Tiafoe, an avid basketball enthusiast, has become renowned for his collection of player jerseys, which he often wears off-court. This year alone, he has showcased jerseys from the Orlando Magic, Washington Mystics, and New York Liberty.Joakim Noah, a two-time NBA All-Star, acknowledged Tiafoe's gesture, commenting on the tournament's official post and extending his support.Despite a modest 11-11 record in 2024, Tiafoe enters Roland Garros with a strong performance from last year, where he reached the third round. However, he has faced recent setbacks, losing five of his last six matches.Tiafoe's jersey tribute to Joakim Noah serves as a poignant reminder of the Noah family's legacy in French tennis and the enduring connection between sports.