The excitement of England’s Euro 2024 penalty shootout victory spilled onto the Wimbledon court during Novak Djokovic’s match against Alexei Popyrin. As the news filtered through Centre Court, Djokovic found himself caught up in the jubilant atmosphere.
During the second set, with Djokovic leading 4-1, fans erupted into applause, momentarily disrupting the game. Both players were initially puzzled before they realized the cause of the commotion – England had just secured a victory via a penalty shootout against Switzerland.
Djokovic, a seven-time Wimbledon champion, even joined in the celebration, acting out a penalty kick as Popyrin playfully pretended to save it. The crowd, fully immersed in the dual sporting events, roared their approval.
“I assumed it was a penalty shootout between England and Switzerland,” Djokovic explained after his 4-6, 6-3, 6-4, 7-6(3) win. “It felt like for a set and a half the crowd really wanted to understand what the score was in the football match.”
He then lightheartedly added, “Did England win in the end? That’s why you guys stayed. Congrats to England. I tried to shoot a penalty, I’m left-footed, but Alexei defended it well.”
The unexpected interruption provided a lighthearted moment amidst the intense tennis match, showcasing the shared passion for sports and the power of collective celebration.
