BBC’s Coverage of Wimbledon 2023
Venue: All England Club
Dates: 3-16 July
Coverage: Watch live on BBC TV, listen on radio, or follow online with extensive coverage on BBC iPlayer, Red Button, Connected TVs, and the mobile app. More details about coverage can be found here.
During a ceremony on Centre Court at Wimbledon 2023, Roger Federer, the eight-time champion, was honored, leaving a lasting impression on the competitors present.
Elena Rybakina, the defending women’s champion, admitted feeling nervous in the presence of Federer, who was attending the ceremony to commemorate his remarkable achievements. Even though he was just a guest, Federer’s immense aura made an impact on Rybakina.
Carlos Alcaraz, the men’s top seed, expressed a hint of jealousy for missing the opportunity to be observed by the retired Swiss legend. Alcaraz confessed that he would love for Federer to witness one of his matches and hoped to interact with him in the future.
Andy Murray, one of Federer’s greatest rivals, spoke highly of the tennis icon’s presence, referring to him as tennis royalty. Sitting next to the Princess of Wales, Federer received praise from Murray, who recalled their past encounters on Centre Court during the 2012 Olympics.
In a special ceremony held on the second day of the grass-court major, the adoring crowd at Centre Court applauded as Federer descended the steps of the Royal Box. Having retired last year, the 20-time Grand Slam champion returned as a special guest to witness the tournament’s action.
Federer, 41, dominated Wimbledon with five consecutive titles from 2003 to 2007, securing additional victories in 2009, 2012, and 2017. His triumph in 2017 surpassed Pete Sampras’ record of seven men’s singles titles at Wimbledon.
The spectators on Centre Court were treated to a video montage showcasing Federer’s journey from his first Wimbledon win to his most recent triumph. Following the video, Federer received a guard of honor in the Royal Box, acknowledging the crowd’s applause and cheers. Adored by British tennis fans, Federer’s standing ovation continued for several minutes.
Accompanying Federer in the Royal Box were his wife, Mirka, his parents, his coach, his agent, and the Princess of Wales.
Although Federer did not address the crowd, his presence spoke volumes. As play resumed immediately after acknowledging Federer for the memories he has provided Wimbledon fans throughout the years, he made a significant impact without uttering a word.
Rybakina, despite her fondness for Federer, found his presence unnerving during her title defense against Shelby Rogers. The Kazakh player double-faulted on the first point, attributing her nervousness to Federer’s presence. She expressed admiration for Federer, as she had always watched him play when she was younger.
Alcaraz, who delivered an electrifying performance in his victory over Jeremy Chardy on Court One, admitted feeling a touch of envy when he learned that Federer was present. He expressed his desire for Federer to witness his matches and engage in conversation, emphasizing the significance of such an opportunity for him.
Murray, who faced Federer multiple times over the years, including the 2012 Wimbledon final where he suffered a loss but later triumphed over Federer in the Olympic final, garnered a nod of approval from the Swiss legend. Federer’s positive gesture towards Murray prompted laughter from the crowd.
Serena Williams, a seven-time women’s singles champion who retired last year, had also received an invitation to the ceremony. However, the pregnant 41-year-old was unable to attend due to travel restrictions.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Wimbledon 2023: Roger Federer ceremony
Who was honored in the Centre Court ceremony at Wimbledon 2023?
Roger Federer, the eight-time Wimbledon champion, was honored in the Centre Court ceremony at Wimbledon 2023.
How did Federer’s presence impact the competitors?
Federer’s presence made some competitors nervous, such as Elena Rybakina, the defending women’s champion. Others, like Carlos Alcaraz, expressed a sense of jealousy for not being watched by the retired Swiss player.
What records has Federer achieved at Wimbledon?
Federer has won the Wimbledon title eight times, including five consecutive titles from 2003 to 2007. He also won in 2009, 2012, and 2017, surpassing Pete Sampras’ record of seven men’s singles titles at Wimbledon.
How did the crowd react to Federer during the ceremony?
The crowd at Centre Court gave Federer a long ovation, applauding and cheering him as he descended the steps of the Royal Box. The standing ovation lasted several minutes, reflecting the love and admiration he receives from British tennis fans.
Did Federer speak during the ceremony?
No, Federer did not speak during the ceremony. Play resumed immediately after he was thanked for the memories he has provided Wimbledon fans over the years. However, his presence alone had a significant impact on the atmosphere and the competitors.
Who accompanied Federer in the Royal Box?
Federer was joined in the Royal Box by his wife, Mirka, his parents, his coach, his agent, and the Princess of Wales, who was sitting next to him.
Were any other tennis legends present at the ceremony?
Serena Williams, a seven-time women’s singles champion, had also been invited to the ceremony but was unable to attend due to her pregnancy and travel restrictions.
More about Wimbledon 2023: Roger Federer ceremony
- Wimbledon Official Website
- BBC Sport – Wimbledon
- Roger Federer’s Profile on ATP Tour
- Wimbledon Championships – Wikipedia
- Elena Rybakina’s Profile on WTA Tour
- Carlos Alcaraz’s Profile on ATP Tour
- Andy Murray’s Profile on ATP Tour
- Serena Williams’s Profile on WTA Tour
5 comments
Alcaraz be like “where was Federer on MY court?” haha. i feel ya bro, having him watch would be a dream come true. keep shining! #FutureStar
omg! Federer is da man. 8 wimbledon titles?! insane! i can’t even. that standing ovation was so deserved. #Respect #TennisRoyalty
roger federer is the goat! so cool that he was honored at wimbledon. his presence tots made the comp nervous. wud luv 2 c him in my matches too! #FedererFan #WimbledonLegend
Murray and Federer, what a rivalry! i love their banter. Murray’s nod got the crowd laughing. can’t get enough of these tennis legends. #ClassicRivalry
Rybakina was all jittery when Federer showed up. i get it, he’s a legend. but she fought back and won! such determination. #FierceCompetitor