The world’s greatest tennis participant Novak Djokovic could also be a six-time winner of the Rome Masters – however he was joyful to swap his racquet for a set of golf golf equipment to look within the All Star Match within the build-up to the forty fourth Ryder Cup.
Djokovic, who claimed a record-equalling twenty fourth grand slam by successful the US Open this month, was taking part in alongside the world No.1 golfer with disabilities Kipp Popert as a part of Colin Montgomerie’s workforce, which additionally featured soccer celebrity Gareth Bale.
“It’s such an honour, a golden opportunity for a once in a lifetime experience,” the nervous-looking 36-year-old Djokovic stated on the primary tee surrounded by an unlimited grandstand.
“Thanks to all the fans for coming and putting a bit of extra pressure on us on the first tee. It’s a unique experience.”
With a whole lot of followers within the stands and lots of extra lining the golf green, Djokovic initially walked out to deal with his ball with a tennis racquet, earlier than switching to a driver.
After a few apply swings had been greeted with cries of “oles”, he despatched his ball down the primary fairway, puffing out his cheeks with reduction and thumping his coronary heart.
Djokovic and England’s Popert had been up towards Spain’s F1 driver Carlos Sainz, who lately received the Singapore Grand Prix, and Italian G4D golfer Tommaso Perrino.
They received 3-1 with Djokovic’s ‘shot of the day’ approaching the par-four sixteenth the place he managed to drive the inexperienced from a barely superior tee — incomes loud cheers from the galleries.
“This is sporting greatness,” Djokovic jested as his ball stopped on the inexperienced. “I was going to play safe but the crowd made me do it. “It was among the best pictures I’ve ever hit.”
There were some duff shots too, including one failed attempt to hack out of the rough, but the Serb, who had some tips from former Real Madrid forward Bale, a keen golfer, before the contest, clearly enjoyed the change of scene.
But he had to admit playing golf in front of large crowds was more daunting than battling on a packed Centre Court.
“I’ve by no means performed golf in entrance of this many individuals, so contemplating my degree I believe I’ve performed fairly properly.”
Source: www.perthnow.com.au
