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via Reuters

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via Reuters

In recent years, interactions between tennis players and fans have become a common sight. From humorous Q&A sessions to autograph signings, players often go above and beyond to engage with their fans. During a match at the 2023 Madrid Open, Alexander Bublik, the Kazakhstani tennis star, added to this trend by doing a heartwarming act for a young fan in the crowd. In a viral clip, Bublik can be seen giving away his shirt to the young fan, but with a playful twist – he made the kid play ‘Rock-Paper-Scissors’ to determine who gets the shirt. The gesture has won the hearts of fans and fellow athletes alike, who have praised Bublik for his kindness and playful nature.

Although Bublik’s gesture was heartwarming, it is not the first time that tennis players have playfully interacted with their young fans. In fact, at the 2017 BNP Paribas Open in California, Roger Federer also had a fun encounter with a group of kids in the press room. He answered their funny questions and even did 10 pushups at their request, leaving the young fans delighted. These interactions between players and fans show that tennis is not just a game, but a way to connect with people and spread joy.

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Six-time ATP Masters finalist shares an emotional yet playful act with his fans on the court

The Russian-born Kazakhstani professional tennis ace had a delightful moment with young fans in the front row on Court 4 at the Mutua Madrid Open. He had defeated Daniel Elahi Galán 7-6 (15), 6-7 (4), 6-4 in his match. Rather than simply handing out a memento or tossing it into the crowd, Bublik had an amusing idea to determine who would leave with his orange shirt. The viral clip has caught the attention of fans on Twitter.

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Bublik picked two kids in the crowd and instructed them to settle the matter in an old-fashioned way with a game of rock-paper-scissors. After just one round, the lucky fan was the winner when scissors cut the paper.

The prominent news outlet, Eurosport tweeted, ” The game: Rock, paper, scissors The prize: Alexander Bublik’s shirt. Never change, Alexander! #MMOpen (via @TennisTV).”

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The opening set of the match was decided by the longest tie-break of the 2023 ATP Tour season so far. The exciting match lasted 25 minutes and 32 points. Bublik converted his fifth set point to win the set after Galán had already spurned seven set points of his own.

READ MORE- ‘You Have the Right To Do So’- Alexander Bublik Contradicts Novak Djokovic’s Take on Wimbledon Banning Russian and Belarusian Players

Bublik will now hope to build momentum and win more matches in the future. His next opponent will be the sixth seed, Holger Rune. While Wednesday’s marathon tie-break may serve as inspiration, Bublik would prefer to avoid having to win the hard way again.

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What do you think, is this just the head start he needs? Let us know in the comments below.

WATCH THIS STORY: Roger Federer’s Aggressive Promotion Of Popular Sneaker Brand Provides Fresh Impetus To Tennis

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