During Kei Nishikori’s match against Kamil Majchrzak, a rather amusing incident occurred. Eighth seed Nishikori needed five sets as he wrestled back from two down, winning 10 consecutive games to beat the Pole in round one of Australian Open 2019.
But the hours of tennis were overshadowed by a moment of inspiration from a ballboy.
Seizing his brief spell in the spotlight with both hands, the youngster – presented with the coin by the umpire as both players watched on – performed a jig and a twirl before flipping the coin onto the hard surface of the Margaret Court Arena.
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Nishikori even appeared to back off fearing the young man would catch him with a stray limb as he executed his pre-coin toss routine.
…did not expect that 😂#AusOpen pic.twitter.com/lse1gXZEDe
— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 15, 2019
The 12-year-old had the privilege of flipping the coin and enjoyed his five seconds of fame by showcasing a Michael Jackson-style dance on the tennis court.
The boy kicked his right leg and made a 360-degree spin before tossing the coin, emulating pop king Michael Jackson.