July 14, 2023

Here’s your roundup of the five most interesting things I’m enjoying or thinking about this week in tennis.

1.) Rublev’s Diving Winner

During his round of 16 match against Alexander Bublik, Andrey Rublev brought up match point with a diving forehand winner. Bublik’s reaction was equally as priceless as the incredible shot. He then sealed the deal with an ace out wide to reach the quarterfinals vs. Djokovic, where his run would come to an end.

2.) Vika Booed After Loss

Following Victoria Azarenka’s loss to Elina Svitolina in the round of 16, the crowd booed Vika off the court because she didn’t approach the net to shake Elina’s hand. However, the non-shake was expected as Ukrainian players, including Elina, have refused to shake hands with Russian or Belarusian players for some time due to the ongoing invasion of their home country. Of course, the booing was ironic because Vika is Belarusian and willing to shake hands. As a result of the situation, the WTA issued a statement on the matter.

Why would the Wimbledon crowd boo Victoria Azarenka? It makes no sense. It was Svitolina who has unilaterally decided not to shake hands with certain players. I feel sorry for @vika7 ! pic.twitter.com/zPWWqkwOiM

— दिविर जैन (@divirj04) July 9, 2023

WTA Statement on post-match handshakes:

Following the unfortunate circumstances and misunderstanding in yesterday’s match at @Wimbledon (along with other matches the past several weeks), the WTA would like to provide clarity around post-match handshakes.

Due to the ongoing…

— wta (@WTA) July 10, 2023

3.) A Wimbledon Warning

It’s common for umpires to encourage the crowd to be quiet or sit quickly when the players are ready, but how about warning fans to avoid popping champagne before a player serves? That’s a thing too.

“Ladies and gentlemen… if you are opening a bottle of champagne, don’t do it as the players are about to serve” 🍾

The most #Wimbledon warning ever from umpire John Blom 🤣 pic.twitter.com/57GBixnM4U

— Wimbledon (@Wimbledon) July 9, 2023

4.) Ons Jabeur Back in Final

Coming back from a set down, Ons Jabeur defeated Aryna Sabalenka 6-7 (5), 6-4, 6-3 to claim a spot in the final of Wimbledon for the second straight year. On Saturday, she’ll face Marketa Vondrousova, who she’s lost to twice this year at Indian Wells and the Australian Open.

ONS-TOPPABLE 🇹🇳@Ons_Jabeur produces a stunning comeback against No.2 seed Aryna Sabalenka to reach the ladies’ final, 6-7(5), 6-4, 6-3 🙌#Wimbledon pic.twitter.com/cFSnkIn55Y

— Wimbledon (@Wimbledon) July 13, 2023

5.) Anderson Out of Retirement

Last May, former world No. 5 Kevin Anderson announced his retirement from professional tennis due in large part to the physical toll on his body. Now having taken plenty of time off, he’s been inspired to give it another go with a wildcard at the Hall of Fame Open, which begins next week in Newport, RI.

Read the ATP’s Announcement

If you have a moment, I’d love to hear your feedback. Which topic is your favorite? What would you like to see more or less of each week?

Share your thoughts in the comments below, and have a great weekend.