Sachin Tendulkar's note to Federer after Wimbledon reunion goes viral
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
India batting legend Sachin Tendulkar posted a heartfelt tribute to Roger Federer on 11 July after the two sporting icons crossed paths once again at Wimbledon, with Tendulkar writing: 'Some rallies never end. Our friendship is one of them. Always a pleasure spending time with you, Roger. Until we meet again.'
Royal Box Reunion at SW19
Tendulkar was among the elite guests seated in the storied Royal Box at Centre Court on Friday, watching Germany's Alexander Zverev dismantle Britain's Arthur Fery in straight sets to book a place in his maiden Wimbledon final. It was another landmark visit to SW19 for the legendary batter, who has long been a celebrated presence at the All England Club.
Also part of the high-profile gathering was India ODI captain Shubman Gill, who experienced the Royal Box for the first time. Gill, who is set to lead India in an ODI series against England later this month, took time away from international cricket commitments to absorb the atmosphere at one of sport's most iconic venues.
A Star-Studded Guest List
The Royal Box assembly on Friday read like a who's who of global sport. Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk and Leeds United chairman Paraag Marathe were among those present alongside Tendulkar and Gill. Notably, the occasion also revived memories of cricket's great rivalries, with Tendulkar's interaction with Brian Lara — once his fiercest on-field opponent, now a fellow ambassador at exhibition and charity matches — drawing attention from those in attendance.
Zverev Books Maiden Wimbledon Final
Alexander Zverev, the second seed, delivered a commanding 7-6(0), 6-2, 6-4 victory over 23-year-old British wildcard Arthur Fery on Friday, ending the home crowd's dream run and advancing to his first-ever Wimbledon final. The win extends Zverev's Grand Slam winning streak to 13 matches.
Zverev, who claimed his first Grand Slam title at Roland Garros last month, has now reached his fifth major final. He overcame a stiff test in the opening set before imposing his authority on the match, silencing a partisan crowd that had rallied behind Fery throughout the fortnight.
What Comes Next
Zverev now stands one win away from a second consecutive Grand Slam title, a feat that would cement his status as the dominant force in men's tennis. Meanwhile, Shubman Gill returns to cricket duties as India prepare for their ODI series against England later in July, carrying the good spirits of a memorable afternoon at the All England Club.