Laura Siegemund, a German tennis star, was seen at Ruby’s Cafe in New York’s Murray Hill neighborhood, seeking solace after her recent defeat at the US Open. Observers noted her somber appearance during the lunch, as she kept her head down and wore a black hat. Sitting outside facing Third Avenue, Siegemund seemed to be intentionally avoiding any attention or recognition from passersby.
Unpleasant Fans
The disappointment of losing her match in the tournament was further exacerbated by the behavior of the tennis fans who attended the game. Siegemund described their lack of respect for her as disheartening, causing her to sob during a post-match interview. The German player expressed her contemplation of not returning to the Grand Slam tournament due to this negative experience.
Conflicts on the Court
Siegemund’s slow pace throughout the tournament not only irritated the audience but also led to confrontations with her opponent, Coco Gauff. Gauff even brought up the issue with a chair umpire, expressing her frustration that Siegemund was consistently not ready for her serves. Gauff questioned the fairness of the situation, highlighting the inconsistency of the time violation penalties given to Siegemund.
Owning Her Style
In the post-match interview, Siegemund acknowledged her slower playing style, admitting that there was no doubt she should be quicker on the court. However, she emphasized that her playing style was a personal choice and not intended to hinder her opponents. She expressed her lack of understanding for fans who clap when she misses a first serve, finding such behavior unnecessary and unsupportive.
While Siegemund faced disappointment, her opponent, Coco Gauff, received an unexpected boost as she had notable political figures, former President Barack Obama and former First Lady Michelle Obama, cheering her on. The Obamas surprised Gauff after her match and even offered her some advice, an uplifting moment for the young tennis player.
The fact that Laura Siegemund went largely unnoticed during her lunch suggests that her visibility in the tennis world may not match her achievements or talent on the court. Despite her success in winning doubles and mixed doubles at previous US Open tournaments, Siegemund experienced a lack of recognition from the public, adding to the disappointment and sorrow she felt after her recent loss.
Laura Siegemund’s defeat at the US Open left her emotionally affected, evident in her sullen appearance during a post-match lunch. The reaction from tennis fans and conflicts on the court further deepened her sense of disappointment. While her playing style occasionally frustrates opponents, Siegemund asserts that it is a personal choice and should not warrant disrespect from the crowd. As she navigates the aftermath of her loss, the surprising encounter with the Obamas offers a glimmer of positivity amidst an otherwise gloomy experience.
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