Immediately following a victorious match, players at the Miami Open usually spend some time signing autographs and mingling with fans. When Bethanie Mattek-Sands emerged from the grandstand court she was a completely different person than the one who had just been playing! Her face lit up when she saw spectators waiting to greet her. She was quick with a big smile, laugh, and happy to take selfies and interact with fans. Quite gregarious!
I particularly liked this interaction with a fan in a wheelchair. Bethanie squeezed her hand and chatted for a bit before moving along.
And this is Big John Isner signing autographs in the same area, just outside the grandstand court. Look at that smile! So nice. I'm not sure if you'll see this kind of close fan interaction with any other professional sport nowadays. I love this aspect of tennis -- hope it doesn't change.
6 comments:
These players are wise to interact with their fan base. But, golf also involves a great deal of fan interactions and autograph signing. Phil Mickelsen sometimes spends an hour signing his name and talking with fans after a round.
Even after losing a match, signing, smiling and taking time to chat on the way out is so important. The lady in her wheelchair, what a special moment.
These are the moments that the fans will never forget. They are priceless! Wonderful photos you captured.
Bethanie certainly seems cheerful. I can't imagine someone was difficult as I understand McInroe to be back in the day doing this, but maybe I'm wrong.
This kind of interaction is rare these days, isn't it? It sure is nice to see happy, friendly athletes willing to take some time to connect with people.
Such a good idea for sportspeople to stay in touch with their fans, keeps it real. Super captures again SRQ 😊
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