Aryna Sabalenka stops Wimbledon speech to make seven-word David Beckham comment
Aryna Sabalenka immediately singled out David Beckham after reaching the second round of Wimbledon. Having beaten Serbian teenager Teodora Kostovic 6-2 6-3 on Centre Court, with the Royal Box watching, she made sure to note that Sir David was in the audience watching.
Beckham was in the audience, next to old foe Katherine Jenkins, while son Romeo watched on from elsewhere on Centre Court as the former footballer instead took his mum to opening day at Wimbledon. They both applauded as the three-time semi-finalist powered her way past her young opponent.
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The world No. 1 thanked the crowd for their support and then paused her speech, turned to Beckham, and said: "Sir David, thank you for being here!"
Sabalenka also had some kind words for her opponent, who has been tipped for big things in the future.
She said: "She brought a really good fight. She stepped in a little more in the second set. She pushed me a bit more. I’m happy I was able to close it in straight sets. I totally get it. Playing for the first time on Centre court, it’s a lot of pressure. But I’m pretty sure she’ll deal with that much better next time.
“I think we all get nervous. It’s just part of our lives. You kind of block that part of your brain and kind of try to focus on yourself. I think with experience I learned how to deal with nerves and expectations a bit better.
“I have to say for the first match I felt pretty good. I’ll rate myself… let’s say 8 out of 10?”
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Beckham shared the Royal Box with Mary Berry, Ronan Keating and Katherine Jenkins among other big-name celebs, the latter of which featured an awkward reunion.
Nine years ago, Beckham's controversial comments on the Welsh singer were brought to light.
After Jenkins was named as OBE in the 2014 New Year's Honours for her contributions to music and charitable efforts, while Beckham was snubbed for a Knighthood, the former Three Lions captain hit out at the decision in a leaked email to his advisor.
"Katherine Jenkins OBE for what?," the email read. "Singing at the rugby and going to see the troops plus taking coke. F***ing joke."