This year’s Rolex Shanghai Masters was a grand affair. Polish tennis star Hubert Hurkacz walked away with the title, but Roger Federer stole his thunder. The Swiss ace was present during the game, and his appearance has generated an incredible buzz on social media.
Hurkacz took on Russian tennis player Andrey Rublev in the final match of the tournament. Both Andrey and Hubert were fighting to win the second Masters 1000 title of their careers. It was a tight match, but Hubert won it 6-3, 3-6, 7-6(8) to take home the silverware.
Federer has been in Shanghai for the past few days and was even felicitated by the tournament organizers. He overshadowed the final clash, as fans fawned over Federer’s looks. The 20-time Grand Slam champion looked dapper in a blue shirt and a pair of sunglasses. Tennis TV shared a clip of the star and wondered if he could play the next James Bond.
The next James Bond? 😎@RogerFederer is back to watch the #RolexShanghaiMasters Final! 🍿 pic.twitter.com/hhoDxmMM9b
— Tennis TV (@TennisTV) October 15, 2023
In the clip, Federer was seen sporting a very serious expression as he watched the match unfold. This particular look has generated a big debate among fans.
Many are of the opinion that Federer’s expression makes him look like a Bond villain. However, one fan commented that Roger would be “Better than Craig.” Daniel Craig has portrayed the character for many years and perhaps Roger will be a suitable replacement. Here are a few reactions.
Looking much more like a Bond villain tbh https://t.co/IXk9hQL9Yb
— Henry Breadstick (@henrybreadstick) October 15, 2023
Better than Craig
— evolved (@evolved117) October 15, 2023
Well suited billionaire in sunglasses who is inexplicably sexy? He’s the villain lbr. https://t.co/dHiyhCUTbI
— Blank Fan Account (@ladybellatennis) October 15, 2023
Chinese fans have always supported Roger Federer, and he shares a special connection with Shanghai. Given the popularity of the maestro, Hubert quite possibly enjoyed having Federer among the crowd.
Hubert Kurkacz apologizes to Roger Federer after winning Shanghai Masters
The Pole won his second Masters 1000 title in Shanghai as he defeated Andrey Rublev in a close game. It was a momentous occasion for him, which is why he made a small error.
In his overjoyed state, Hubert forgot to thank Federer in his victory speech. It dawned on him during the post-match conference and hoped that Roger would not mind it too much. “Hopefully, he won’t take it personally!” he said (via Eurosport).
Hubert Hurkacz says he’s sorry that he forgot to mention Federer during his speech in Shanghai Final:
“This tournament has been won by many champions in the past, incredible players. In my speech I tried to thank everyone. I forgot to mention Roger. I appreciate him coming, so… pic.twitter.com/GivWJ7aDWm
— The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) October 15, 2023
Roger Federer retired from tennis in 2022, but his popularity has not diminished at all. The crowds that showed up at his presentation ceremony speak of his continued influence.