Twenty years after her stunning Wimbledon victory, former champion Maria Sharapova graced the Royal Box, a testament to her enduring legacy in the world of tennis.
In 2004, at the age of 17, Sharapova shocked the tennis world by defeating Serena Williams in the ladies' singles final, establishing herself as a global sporting icon. This victory not only secured her a place in tennis history but also earned her the prestigious honor of a lifetime membership at the All England Club.
Today, Sharapova, now retired from professional tennis, returned to SW19 alongside her fiancé, Alexander Gilkes, to witness the ladies' singles final between Jasmine Paolini and Barbora Krejcikova. The couple, who have built a thriving business empire together, celebrated their love and success amidst the glamorous backdrop of Wimbledon.
Sharapova wasn't the only star in attendance. The Royal Box played host to a constellation of personalities from the world of sports and entertainment. Tennis legends Sue Barker, Marion Bartoli, Ann Jones, Billie Jean King, Conchita Martinez, and nine-time Wimbledon champion Martina Navratilova joined the crowd, sharing their expertise and passion for the game.
England's Euro 2024 pundit, Jill Scott, fresh off her duties in Germany, made a return to Wimbledon, joining former Lionesses teammate Leah Williamson in the exclusive Royal Box. The duo sat alongside renowned football figures Roy Hodgson and Pep Guardiola, who recently received a coaching offer from Alexander Zverev.
Hollywood star Hugh Jackman, director Sam Mendes, singer Ellie Goulding, and former Strictly Come Dancing judge Darcey Bussell rounded out the impressive lineup in the Royal Box, adding a touch of glamour to the already electrifying atmosphere.
While the Royal Box attracted a dazzling array of guests, the hospitality seats also welcomed a captivating mix of celebrities. Zendaya, Maya Jama, Anya Taylor-Joy, Tom Cruise, and Pierce Brosnan enjoyed the Wimbledon experience from this prestigious setting.
The £2.7 million ladies' final was followed by the men's doubles final, featuring Brit Henry Patten and his Finnish partner Harri Heliovaara against the Australian pairing of Max Purcell and Jordan Thomspon. The ladies' doubles final concluded the day's events.
However, the absence of Princess Kate, patron of the All England Club, was noted. She will not be present for the ladies' final, passing on the trophy presentation duties to Debbie Jevans, Chair of the AELTC, due to her current cancer treatment. Kensington Palace confirmed that Kate will attend the men's final on Sunday, presenting the trophy to either Carlos Alcaraz or Novak Djokovic, a year after the Spaniard's thrilling victory.
Wimbledon, a tournament steeped in tradition and prestige, once again provided a captivating stage for the world's elite. The presence of past champions, current stars, and influential figures from diverse fields created an unforgettable experience, solidifying Wimbledon's place as the pinnacle of the tennis world.