Sharath Kamal Recalls Memorable Olympic Moments, from Federer to Ma Long

Sharath Kamal Recalls Memorable Olympic Moments, from Federer to Ma Long

Achanta Sharath Kamal, India’s flag-bearer for the Paris Olympics, has had an illustrious career spanning five Olympic appearances. From sharing a meal with tennis legend Roger Federer to taking a set off Chinese table tennis icon Ma Long, Sharath has created countless memories on the Olympic stage.

Sharath’s Olympic journey began in Athens in 2004, where he met double trap shooting silver medalist Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore before the final. In Beijing in 2008, despite suffering a knee injury, Sharath fought valiantly to reach the second round, defeating Spain’s Alfredo Carneros and pushing Austrian friend Chen Weixing to five sets.

London 2012 marked a turning point for Sharath, as he helped the Indian men’s team qualify for the Olympics for the first time. In Rio 2016, he faced Ma Long, the eventual gold medalist, and managed to win a set, a testament to his resilience and determination.

Tokyo 2020, postponed by a year due to the COVID-19 pandemic, presented unique challenges for Sharath. Despite limited training resources in India, he persevered and made a significant impact, winning a set against Ma Long once again.

Sharath’s Olympic experiences have not been limited to table tennis. In Athens, he witnessed the “mamba mentality” of basketball legend Kobe Bryant during the opening ceremony. In Beijing, he observed the camaraderie among international athletes, including Federer and Andy Roddick.

As he prepares for his potential final Olympic appearance in Paris, Sharath believes that the team qualification could be a catalyst for the growth of table tennis in India. His unwavering spirit and dedication to the sport continue to inspire young athletes and fans alike.

Medvedev Reveals Secret Head Injury from 2016 Wimbledon Qualifying

Medvedev Reveals Secret Head Injury from 2016 Wimbledon Qualifying

Daniil Medvedev, the former world No. 1, recently revealed a bizarre injury that occurred during his qualifying match at the 2016 Wimbledon Championships. While preparing to face wild card Marcus Willis, Medvedev accidentally hit his head on a cage at Aorangi Park, causing a bloody wound on his arm.

Despite the injury, Medvedev played the match the following day but lost to Willis in four sets. Willis went on to make history by reaching the second round and facing Roger Federer on Centre Court.

Medvedev’s injury remained a secret until now, but he shared the story after witnessing Novak Djokovic’s head injury from a falling water bottle at the Internazionali BNL d’Italia. The incident reminded Medvedev of his own mishap, which he believes may have contributed to his loss against Willis.

“You always ask yourself after the match, ‘Did I lose yesterday because I hit my head or not?'” Medvedev said. “That’s a story which no one knew about. It’s not a bad story either, but a story that I remember, yeah.”

Despite the injury, Medvedev has gone on to achieve great success, including winning the Internazionali BNL d’Italia in 2021. He is now the No. 2 seed in the tournament and will face Hamad Medjedovic in the round of 16.

Medvedev also expressed his dislike for the dirty conditions of clay courts, but acknowledged that he is enjoying them more and more.

Rohan Bopanna on Federer, Nadal, Djokovic: “All GOATs Grazing on Different Pastures”

Indian tennis legend Rohan Bopanna recently shared his insights on the greatness of Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic, and Rafael Nadal. When asked to choose the greatest player out of the three, Bopanna gave a nuanced response.

“Federer’s elegance on the court is phenomenal, gracefully gliding with finesse,” Bopanna said. “Nadal’s sheer power and determination dominates the clay. And then there’s Djokovic, whose unmatched consistency and mental strength resemble a chess grandmaster strategizing every move meticulously.”

Bopanna emphasized that each player embodies excellence in their unique way, making it difficult to crown a single greatest of all time. “Comparing them is akin to selecting the best flavor of ice cream—everyone has their preference, but each scoop holds its own undeniable appeal and deliciousness,” he added.

The 42-year-old Bopanna, who recently won the Australian Open men’s doubles title with Matthew Ebden, also reflected on his tennis journey. He attributed his success to his passion for the sport, unwavering determination, and countless hours of practice.

Bopanna revealed that his father played a pivotal role in shaping his passion for tennis. “His guidance, encouragement, and support at every step laid the foundation for my journey in the sport,” he said. He also expressed admiration for tennis legend Stefan Edberg, whose skill and graceful demeanor inspired him.

Bopanna spoke highly of his four-year partnership with ASICS. “Their dedication to innovation and best-in-class products perfectly aligns with my own pursuit of peak performance,” he said. “Together, we have launched the ‘Move Your Mind’ campaign to spread awareness about the importance of mental and physical benefits of exercise.”

TopSpin 2K25: A Triumphant Return for the Beloved Tennis Franchise

TopSpin 2K25: A Triumphant Return for the Beloved Tennis Franchise

TopSpin 2K25, the highly anticipated tennis video game, has finally arrived, bringing the beloved franchise back to life after a decade-long hiatus. Developed by Hangar 13 and 2K, the game features a roster of current and former tennis stars, including Roger Federer, Serena Williams, Iga Swiatek, and Carlos Alcaraz.

Upon starting the game, players are greeted by John McEnroe, who guides them through a brief tutorial. The tutorial covers basic controls and introduces the concept of “no man’s land,” a crucial aspect of tennis strategy. Players can then create their own MyPLAYER, customizing their appearance, animations, and playing style.

TopSpin 2K25 offers a variety of game modes, including MyCAREER, where players embark on a journey as a professional tennis player. In MyCAREER, players manage their player’s energy levels, participate in tournaments, and earn rewards. Exhibition mode allows players to engage in one-off matches using playable pros or their own MyPLAYER.

The gameplay in TopSpin 2K25 is both challenging and rewarding. Each shot has a Timing meter and a Power vs Control meter, which players must master to execute successful shots. The game’s realistic animations and smooth match formats create an immersive tennis experience.

The game also features a Centre Court Pass, a seasonal “Battle Pass” that encourages players to complete daily and weekly challenges to earn rewards. In-game currency can be used to purchase items in the Pro Shop, including exclusive bundles and rare items.

While the game’s graphics are impressive, some players have noted that the character models of playable pros can be inconsistent. Additionally, the roster of playable pros is somewhat limited, but Hangar 13 and 2K have confirmed that more players will be added in future updates.

Overall, TopSpin 2K25 is a solid tennis video game that captures the essence of the sport. Its depth of detail, engaging game modes, and rewarding gameplay will appeal to tennis fans and gamers alike.

Roger Federer to Address Dartmouth College Graduates, Receive Honorary Degree

Roger Federer to Address Dartmouth College Graduates, Receive Honorary Degree

Roger Federer, the legendary tennis icon with 20 Grand Slam titles to his name, will grace the hallowed halls of Dartmouth College in Hanover, New Hampshire, this summer. On June 9, 2024, the 42-year-old Swiss maestro will address the graduating class and receive an honorary doctor of humane letters degree.

The announcement was made via a captivating YouTube video featuring Federer clad in Dartmouth green, alongside President Sian Leah Beilock and groundskeeper Tommy Shea. “I am so excited and honored to be your Commencement speaker this year,” Federer exclaimed. “I hope I see you on the Big Green in June.”

President Beilock, an avowed Federer fan, expressed her admiration for the tennis great. “Roger Federer is undeniably one of the greatest athletes of all time, but it’s the evident joy that he always found on the court that stays with me, and that I think will resonate most with the Class of 2024.”

Federer’s connection to the American college scene has deepened this year. Earlier this month, he made a surprise appearance at Stanford University, where Nico Godsick, son of Federer’s longtime agent Tony Godsick and a Dartmouth alum, plays for the Cardinal.

Federer witnessed Stanford’s 7-0 victory over UNLV and joined the team for dinner. Nico Godsick ensured his teammates were aware of Federer’s presence beforehand. “I didn’t want them to be at break point, deuce point, first game, then look up and see Roger and then double-fault,” Godsick told SFGATE. “They were super excited and I don’t think it could have gone any better.”

Federer’s recent appearance in Palo Alto showcased his enduring brilliance on the court. His forehand remains as silky as ever on hard courts, leaving fans eager to witness his artistry on grass at Hanover’s Big Green.

TopSpin 2K25 Returns with Legends and Rising Tennis Stars

TopSpin 2K25 Returns with Legends and Rising Tennis Stars

TopSpin 2K25: A Tennis Revival with Legends and Rising Stars

The beloved tennis video game franchise, TopSpin, is making a grand return with its latest installment, TopSpin 2K25. Scheduled for release on April 26, the game promises to bring the thrill of the court to your fingertips, featuring an impressive roster of current and former tennis icons.

Headlining the game are tennis legends Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal, who grace the cover of the “Legends” edition. Joining them are other retired greats like Serena Williams, Steffi Graf, and Andre Agassi. The active player roster boasts 18 top-notch athletes, including Carlos Alcaraz, Iga Swiatek, Frances Tiafoe, Daniil Medvedev, and Coco Gauff.

While many players are excited to play as themselves, Coco Gauff has a different preference. “It’s pretty cool to be in a video game,” she said. “But I don’t know how I would feel playing as myself.” Instead, she would rather step into the shoes of one of the “Big Three.”

TopSpin 2K25 not only captures the essence of tennis but also pays homage to the sport’s iconic brands. Players can choose from a wide range of gear and apparel from Nike, Adidas, Babolat, Lacoste, and more. This attention to detail enhances the game’s authenticity and immerses players in the world of professional tennis.

The game’s developers have also unveiled a first look at the character designs, showcasing the realistic and expressive animations of the players. Carlos Alcaraz expressed his eagerness to experience the game firsthand, while Coco Gauff admitted that the swings looked “funny” in the video she saw.

With its impressive roster, authentic gameplay, and attention to detail, TopSpin 2K25 is poised to become a must-have for tennis enthusiasts. The game promises to deliver an immersive and entertaining experience, allowing players to relive the glory days of tennis legends and witness the rise of the next generation of stars.

Grand Slam Champions Shine at Oscars Night in Hollywood

Grand Slam Champions Shine at Oscars Night in Hollywood

Hollywood’s Oscars night witnessed a star-studded gathering, including three Grand Slam champions: Roger Federer, Ana Ivanovic, and Serena Williams.

Roger Federer and his wife Mirka graced the red carpet at the Dolby Theatre, setting the tone for the evening. Ana Ivanovic, the 2008 Roland Garros champion, arrived with her husband, retired soccer star Bastian Schweinsteiger, as guests of Rolex. They also made an appearance at the Vanity Fair Oscars party.

Serena Williams, a 23-time Grand Slam winner, turned heads in a black, red, and white strapless dress by Off-White. She accessorized with Messika jewelry and an Audemars Piguet watch. Williams’ stunning look garnered praise from celebrities like Khloe Kardashian and Paris Hilton.

Ivanovic opted for a striking yellow Alex Perry dress, accessorized with a black clutch and a Rolex watch. She and retired skier Lindsey Vonn shared a lighthearted moment on social media, posing as Schweinsteiger’s “assistants” as he held an Oscar statuette.

Schweinsteiger expressed his support for fellow German Sandra Hüller in the “Best Actress” race, though she ultimately lost to Emma Stone.

The presence of these Grand Slam champions at the Oscars highlighted the intersection between sports and entertainment. Their glamorous appearances and connections with fashion and luxury brands showcased their influence beyond the tennis court.

Roger Federer Embarks on West Coast Tour, Visits Warriors and Oscars

Roger Federer Embarks on West Coast Tour, Visits Warriors and Oscars

Roger Federer, the legendary Swiss tennis player, recently embarked on a whirlwind tour of the West Coast, making appearances at the Chase Center in San Francisco and the Oscars in Los Angeles.

Federer’s visit to the Chase Center, the home of the Golden State Warriors, was a prelude to the 2025 Laver Cup, which he founded and will be held in San Francisco. He toured the team’s practice facility, where he showcased his shooting skills and interacted with stars like Steph Curry and Draymond Green.

Later that evening, Federer attended the Warriors’ game against the San Antonio Spurs, sitting courtside with Warriors owner Joe Lacob and poker pro Phil Hellmuth. Despite Federer’s presence, the Warriors suffered a 126-113 loss.

Less than 24 hours later, Federer graced the red carpet at the Oscars in Los Angeles, accompanied by his wife, Mirka. Federer looked dapper in a white suit jacket and black pants, while Mirka complemented him in a long, black dress.

Federer’s appearance at the Oscars marked his second time attending the prestigious event. In 2016, he famously took a shot of tequila on the red carpet.

While Federer’s West Coast tour was primarily focused on promoting the Laver Cup and attending the Oscars, speculation remains whether he might make an appearance at the Indian Wells Tennis Garden before the BNP Paribas Open concludes.

Roger Federer Explores Asia, Shares Shanghai Favorites

Roger Federer Explores Asia, Shares Shanghai Favorites

Roger Federer Embarks on Asian Adventure, Unveils Shanghai Favorites

Swiss tennis legend Roger Federer recently embarked on a whirlwind tour of Asia, captivating fans with glimpses of his travels and showcasing his favorite spots in Thailand and Shanghai.

Federer’s Thai sojourn commenced on February 23rd, where he immersed himself in the vibrant culture. He shared a picturesque boat ride through the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, savoring the local delicacy of Khao Niao Mamuang. His adventures continued with a thrilling tuk-tuk ride through Bangkok’s bustling streets.

In a rare public appearance, Federer’s wife, Mirka, joined him for a beachside photo shoot. The couple’s affectionate display garnered attention on social media, with Sara Foster, wife of former world No. 2 Tommy Haas, playfully commenting on Federer’s Instagram post.

Federer’s Asian expedition extended to Shanghai, China, where he partnered with Uniqlo to unveil his favorite haunts in the city. The latest installment of “24 Hours with Roger” showcased Federer’s diverse experiences.

He visited the art studio of Zhu Jingyi, engaging in a creative exchange. At the Jing’an Gymnasium, he displayed his table tennis prowess against 7-year-old prodigy Guo Duoer. Federer indulged in the culinary delights of Shanghai, savoring tomato sour soup at the Maolago restaurant.

As night fell, Federer embarked on a scenic bike ride along Bei Suzhou Road with Chinese heptathlete Zheng Ninali. Reflecting on his time in China, Federer expressed his admiration for the country’s unique culture while emphasizing the universal desire for a fulfilling life.

Federer’s Asian tour not only showcased his love for travel but also highlighted his appreciation for different cultures and experiences. His adventures have captivated fans worldwide, providing a glimpse into the life of one of the greatest tennis players of all time.

Lindsey Vonn Declares Novak Djokovic as GOAT, Reignites Debate

Lindsey Vonn Declares Novak Djokovic as GOAT, Reignites Debate

Celebrity tennis enthusiast Lindsey Vonn has reignited the “Greatest of All Time” (GOAT) debate, this time expressing her admiration for Novak Djokovic. Vonn, who previously sparked controversy by declaring Roger Federer as the GOAT, took to social media to clarify her stance.

In a recent post, Vonn shared a selfie with Djokovic, accompanied by a caption that read, “Hanging with the [goat emoji], and yes, I do believe he is the goat.” She emphasized that she believes there can be multiple GOATs, but Djokovic’s record-breaking achievements and his skiing abilities earn him the title.

Djokovic’s recent tour of California has included encounters with other celebrities. He and his wife, Jelena, attended an NBA game where they witnessed Nikola Jokic lead the Denver Nuggets to victory over LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers. Djokovic also visited the LA Galaxy FC soccer match and trained with the UCLA tennis and football teams.

Djokovic expressed his admiration for both LeBron James and Nikola Jokic, calling them “great” and “amazing,” respectively. Jokic, in turn, praised Djokovic as a role model and a source of national pride for Serbia.

Vonn’s comments and Djokovic’s interactions with other athletes have further fueled the GOAT debate. While some fans may disagree with Vonn’s assessment, her willingness to acknowledge Djokovic’s accomplishments highlights the complexity of the GOAT discussion.

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