In his home hard court tournament, the Citi Open, Frances Tiafoe recently concluded a remarkable campaign by making it to the quarterfinals. However, it was his second-round match that caught the most attention of the entire sporting realm owing to a celebrity appearance in the ATP 500 event. It was none other than the NBA legend, Kevin Durant, who was there among the audience to cheer on the young American tennis player.
Later, the currently ranked world No. 10 was also joined by the Phoenix Suns star as they shared a warm embrace on the court. However, that heartfelt exchange between the two American sporting icons might have turned out to be a bit ‘painful’ according to Tiafoe’s recent revelation on social media.
Frances Tiafoe recalls his on-court meeting with the NBA legend
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Cheered on by the American basketball icon, ‘Bigfoe,’ with his on-court prowess, outperformed the Russian, Aslan Karatsev, 7-6 (5), 7-6 (5), in the second round of the Citi Open. After his incredible victory, the Phoenix Suns legend also stepped on the court in order to share a heartfelt celebratory moment with his young compatriot.
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In the video clip, Tiafoe and Durant were spotted sharing an ‘energetic’ high-five prior to their warm hug on the court. The exuberant high-five, however, appears to have been a little ‘painful’ one for Tiafoe, as his hands are still sore. While sharing a video clip of the same on his Instagram story, the American said, “my hand still hurts” and added a string of laughing tears emojis.
Apart from their exuberant exchange on the tennis court, the NBA star also lauded his young compatriot in an honest confession.
‘KD’ was all praises for Tiafoe’s energetic demeanor
During an on-court interview at the Citi Open, the Phoenix Suns star was asked about his views on his compatriot’s game style and personality. In his response, Durant was singing praises for the young tennis player as he expressed his respect and admiration towards him. The 34-year-old asserted that Tiafoe, with his skill and determination, brings a lot of energy and excitement into the game.
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Kevin Durant on Frances Tiafoe:
“There was a lot of energy in the building. I’m glad he got the win. He’s bringing that energy from this area. He represents right. We’re all proud of him.”
Rennae Stubbs: “Who wins on a basketball court?”
KD: “I do” 😂
— The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) August 2, 2023
Meanwhile, the NBA legend also expressed his delight towards the ATP player’s incredible victory on their home soil. Later, the basketball star went on to say that the entire nation and sporting community was proud of Tiafoe. Durant said, “He represents right. So, we’re all proud of him”.
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What do you think of the NBA legend lavishing praise on his young compatriot, Tiafoe? Let us know in the comments section.
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