Rafael Nadal and Iga Swiatek teamed up to face Coco Gauff and John McEnroe in Tennis Plays for Peace exhibition match.
The Ukraine charity event was organised by United States Tennis Association (USTA) to raise awareness and humanitarian aid for people affected by the Russia-Ukraine war.
Each player showed flashes of the athletic brilliance that propelled them to the top of the sport, but also made sure to entertain with trick shots and – in McEnroe’s case – jokes.
In the end, Rafa and Iga won a tiebreak, 10-8 – then embraced their opponents and spoke during a post-match interview, where Iga discussed how the situation in neighboring Ukraine is close to her heart.
Many other players also gathered Wednesday night under the lights of Louis Armstrong Stadium to play for peace – Stefanos Tsitsipas, Matteo Berrettini, Carlos Alcaraz, Jessica Pegula, Maria Sakkari, Leylah Fernandez, Dayana Yastremska, Katarina Zavatska and Daria Snigur.
Source: US Open
I love the happiness!!!!
Does anyone know what time the Men’s Draw will be announced today?
It is already done… you can see it on us open site
Oh okay thanks – I couldn’t find it when I checked earlier.
Looks like a good draw for Rafa. He would have Carlos in the semi but that’s to be expected. Carlos has Coric in his quarter so Rafa will only see one of them or neither. Also Nick will play Medvedev if he makes in to the fourth round. Don’t know where FAA and Fritz landed to name two that could give Rafa a match.
Djokovic finally pulled out. With more than one million dead from covid did Nole really think the rules would be changed for one tennis player? And no it would not be different if his name were Rafael or Roger.
Concerned for Maria of course. Hope we get some good news soon
I like Rafa’s draw and am hoping for a golden run to the title for Rafa! But of course one match at a time.
Was nice of you all to give yo time and energy to getting the funds to help the Ukraine 🇺🇦
Tennis Plays for Peace-thank you Rafa and Iga for your generous participation. Great to see
you both on court, enjoying the moment. What a thrill for Iga! 👏🙏❤️
❤️
All in a great cause. Looks like it was loads of fun, as can be seen by Rafa’s beaming smile. Johnny Mac was a great choice for jokes and Iga’s a very lucky lady….!
Few typos in my post ! “ it was fun but both wanted to win”
I think that Iga was really happy to play with Rafa and he with her. It was fun with the truck shots but they was Ted to win , great cause.
So many Rafans want to be in Iga’s place.
💙💛 Enjoyed watching Iga & Rafa playing mixed doubles🤩😍 Iga’s tweener and then Rafa’s, just brilliant👍👏
Good luck to both in NY.🍀❤️
Must be amazing to be able to have a game with your idol – so special
Looking good