Elena Rybakina admitted she went into shock when she saw the great Roger Federer in person for the first time. Rybakina, 23 years old, grew up watching and admiring Federer.
A few years ago at Wimbledon, Rybakina was competing in junior women’s singles when she saw Federer at the All England Club. In a Roland Garros video, Rybakina and several other tennis stars were asked if they’ve ever been impressed in front of a celebrity.
“I think it was when I was playing at juniors at Wimbledon that I saw Roger up close for the first time. I was shocked”, said Rybakina in a video for Roland Garros.
Elena is really a big fan of Roger Federer.ð¥°
How she spoke about being close of him during Wimbledon juniors #RolandGarros
📸: Roland-Garros/ Ig pic.twitter.com/TcRGuK9lBu — Sebastien G.(@sebsharfam) May 29, 2023
Rybakina looked up at Federer
At Wimbledon, Federer is an absolute icon and a record holder with eight titles. Last summer, Rybakina became the Grand Slam champion after beating Ons Jabeur in the Wimbledon final.
After her Wimbledon triumph, Rybakina revealed that she has always been a fan of Federer. “I’ve always liked the way Roger Federer plays. Just his game is amazing but yes apart from him I just enjoyed watching the games no matter who is playing and yes it’s just a pleasure to watch every game see, especially when they’re great fights,” said Rybakina after winning Wimbledon.
At this year’s Australian Open, Rybakina reached her second Grand Slam final. During her run at Melbourne Park, Rybakina spoke about how she was inspired by Federer. “As I said, my idol was still Roger Federer.
From the women’s side I would say that I like to watch different players if I have the chance. I wouldn’t say I had an idol from the women’s side,” said Rybakina in January.
Having reached two Grand Slam finals in her last three Majors, Rybakina is now aiming for a successful run at the French Open as well. Rybakina recently won a WTA 1000 event in Rome and is considered one of the top favorites for the French Open title.
2023-05-30 16:28:44
#Elena #Rybakina #Starstruck #sight #Roger #Federer