One member of Sky Sports’ US Open punditry team couldn’t resist a quip at Lewis Hamilton’s expense during the women’s singles final between Aryna Sabalenka and Jessica Pegula
Feliciano Lopez couldn’t resist cracking a joke at Lewis Hamilton’s expense during the US Open women’s singles final.
The former world No.12 was part of Sky Sports’ coverage of the women’s decider at Flushing Meadows on Saturday. And while presenter Marion Bartoli was overjoyed to see Formula 1 star Hamilton in the New York stands, Lopez was less enthused.
Big names like Travis Scott and Rory McIlroy were seen in the Big Apple over the duration of the fortnight-long Grand Slam. But Hamilton saved his cameo for last as he watched Aryna Sabalenka beat Jessica Pegula to the major crown, per the Daily Express.
One-time Wimbledon champion Bartoli couldn’t hide her delight when she spotted Hamilton in the stands during Saturday’s finale. The retired tennis star let out a scream when footage showed the Briton entering the grounds, exclaiming: “I have to find him!”
As the cameras recorded the arrival of the Mercedes driver, Gigi Salmon made a prediction about Bartoli’s reaction.
She anticipated that Bartoli would need to handle the situation with Marion carefully. Bartoli expressed her excitement by exclaiming, “Oh my god!” and showing her fangirl side.
Salmon then gave more information to the viewers, stating that Lewis Hamilton had arrived. It was clear that Marion was a big fan of Hamilton. She had openly expressed her admiration for him. Another retiree, Lopez, took advantage of the opportunity to playfully taunt Bartoli by suggesting that Fernando Alonso is a superior driver. Alonso, a two-time Formula 1 world champion, is held in high regard by numerous Spaniards for his iconic status in the sport.
Bartoli, however, remained unfazed by Lopez’s remark.
During the discussion on the final match at Arthur Ashe Stadium, Salmon jokingly cautioned the trio, saying “Feli, be careful, she might just push you off this balcony if you keep speaking like that.
And trust me, I’m not joking.” However, Bartoli remained resolute in her unwavering support for Hamilton, expressing her determination to locate him and assist him in any way possible.
Despite her enthusiasm, Salmon gently brought her back to reality by reminding her that their search would need to be postponed until a later time.
Hamilton was seen socializing with renowned fashion figure Anna Wintour at Arthur Ashe Stadium, showcasing his presence in elite circles.
Anna Wintour, a prominent fashion icon and the influential editor-in-chief of Vogue, has been a regular attendee at Flushing Meadows throughout the previous fortnight, immersing herself in the thrilling matches from prime court-side seats.
Her support for British tennis player Jack Draper during his fourth-round match was particularly notable, as she cheered him on from Hamilton’s exclusive box, cementing her passion for the sport and dedication to fostering young talent.
The duo’s interaction at the prestigious venue served as a testament to their shared interests in both fashion and tennis, highlighting the crossing of paths between two influential personalities. (“Hamilton” refers to an individual whose full name is known.)