When the order of play is out, the excitement is usually built around the most promising matchups. When two players of similar skillset or a match suggesting a potential upset is looked forward to. However, today, the players weren’t the center of attraction as a special guest arrived at the Centre Court. The special guest also happens to be an eight-time Wimbledon champion.

Yes, after 22 consecutive appearances at Wimbledon, you just cannot separate Roger Federer from the courts of SW19. The organizers felt it was the right time to felicitate the most successful male grass court player at the Centre Court. On his arrival, Federer received arguably the longest ovation which required another powerful figure’s intervention to cool down.

Kate Middleton’s gesture silences the crowd

Roger Federer’s presence mesmerized the crowd and the applause didn’t just stop. The Swiss Maestro felt overwhelmed and continued to acknowledge the crowd. Despite entering the Royal Box with his wife Mirka, he stood on his feet, waving to the crowd. Kate Middleton, occupying the seat next to Federer, exchanged a few words with the Maestro and requested him to sit. Middleton’s gesture finally silenced the emotional Centre Court crowd.

Defending champion Elena Rybakina was waiting to open the day’s play against Shelby Rogers. Therefore, the Princess of Wales had to intervene and stop the applause to stop Wimbledon from further delay.

Middleton also happens to be a Roger Federer admirer herself. She shared the court with the Swiss Maestro not long ago as Federer reminisced his Basel days.

READ MORE: 3 Decades After His First Tennis Stint, Roger Federer Turns Back the Clock With Kate Middleton as They Let Wimbledon Sparkle With Their Timeless Elegance

When Kate Middleton recorded a short film with Roger Federer

A few days prior to Wimbledon’s commencement, the Princess of Wales invited Roger Federer to the courts of SW19. The eight-time champion engaged in a hitting session with Middleton. before emulating the ball kids.  The duo spent a major part of the day recording the short film and doing their best ball kid impression. A wave of nostalgia went through Federer as he himself was a ball kid for two years in Basel.

Middleton specifically inviting Federer among all the present legends shows that she holds the Swiss Maestro in great regard.

Do you think Federer will continue to make Centre Court appearances in the upcoming years? Let us know in the comments.

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