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WATCH: COVID-19 Vaccine Developer Gets Prolonged Standing Ovation at Wimbledon Championships 2021
The 2021 Wimbledon Championships began on Monday in the midst of rainy conditions. The unfavorable weather forced many opening round encounters to be pushed back; it was an anti-climactic beginning to the highly anticipated tournament.
With opposite halves of each singles draw lined up for day one, there was no shortage of competitive tussles. However, the start of play on the showpiece court was somewhat overshadowed by an emotional tribute from the Championships to those who played a part in helping the Covid-19 situation and making the tournament possible.
Tennis – Wimbledon – All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club, London, Britain – June 28, 2021 General view of centre court before the start of play Pool via REUTERS/Joe Toth
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Action commences on Court-1
After a short drizzle delay, Wimbledon 2021 was set to commence. Following the withdrawal of defending champion Simona Halep, Belarusian power-hitter Aryna Sabalenka climbed up a spot to become the 2nd seed. She began proceedings on Court-1 against Monica Niculescu of Romania, eventually coming through 6-1 6-4. Just as Sabalenka was beginning to wrap things up in her First Round encounter, all eyes shifted to Centre Court.
Tennis – Wimbledon – All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club, London, Britain – June 28, 2021 Serbia’s Novak Djokovic during his first round match against Britain’s Jack Draper via REUTERS/Paul Childs
Centre Court rises for Covid warriors before play
Before players could walk out on court, spectators and fans from home were treated to a lovely gesture by the All England Club. Doctors, nurses, volunteers and other workers were thanked with immense gratitude. The Covid-19 vaccine developer was also shown appreciation. The spectators and the Royal Box rose and applauded the workforce that has fought tirelessly to battle the global pandemic.
An opening day on Centre Court with a difference…
A special moment as we say thank you to those who have played such an important role in the response to COVID-19#Wimbledon pic.twitter.com/16dW1kQ2nr
— Wimbledon (@Wimbledon) June 28, 2021
Following the act of appreciation, the spotlight was on defending champion Novak Djokovic as he walked out to begin his title defense against up and coming British southpaw Jack Draper. All eyes were on the Serb; nonetheless, it was a touching couple of minutes. It reminded everyone how much they have to be thankful for in these trying times.
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