Carlos Alcaraz used his post-match remarks on Sunday to deliver an emotional tribute to King Felipe VI of Spain following his Wimbledon final loss to Jannik Sinner.
The 22-year-old Spaniard, who had been seeking a third consecutive title at the All England Club, fell to the world number one in four sets: 4-6, 6-4, 6-4, 6-4.
Rather than dwelling on the disappointment of his dethroned status, Alcaraz chose to honour the Spanish monarch who had travelled to London specifically to support him from the Royal Box on Centre Court.
In his post-match remarks, Alcaraz's voice was filled with emotion as he addressed the Royal Box.
Carlos Alcaraz thanked King Felipe VI of Spain for his support in his post-match remarks
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"I don't want to leave without saying that I just have to say thank you to the King of Spain, coming here in support for me," he said.
The young tennis star continued it was: "Just an honour enjoying the stands, pouring, flying, flying here towards the final. So I'm just really grateful, and thank you very much for coming."
His heartfelt words prompted King Felipe to smile and applaud from his seat, acknowledging the gracious tribute from his nation's tennis star despite the painful defeat.
The Royal Box on Sunday featured an impressive gathering of dignitaries, with King Felipe seated alongside the Prince and Princess of Wales, Prince George and Princess Charlotte. Prince Louis did not attend the match.
King Felipe cheered Alcaraz on, despite the Spaniard's loss to Italy's Jannik Sinner
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Before the final began, the Spanish royal household released images showing King Felipe conversing with Kate and her family.
The Spanish monarch was also able to congratulate Martín de la Puente, who had won the wheelchair tennis doubles tournament.
After his victory, Sinner also spoke about brushing shoulders with royalty.
"I asked the kids if they play tennis and asked them what kind of rackets they play with, these kind of things," the Italian said about meeting Kate, William, George and Charlotte.
Felipe was spectating alongside Princess Kate, Prince William, Prince George and Princess Charlotte
Casa de S.M. el Rey
"It was amazing. I believe for us tennis players, it's so nice to have them watching us because it makes it even more special.
"You see how much they care about tennis and the sport itself. It's very prestigious. I've been lucky to meet her (Princess Kate) and the whole family, and it was a very nice moment," he added.
King Felipe's support for Alcaraz at Wimbledon has become a cherished tradition. The monarch was present in 2023 when the Spaniard claimed his first title at the tournament.
Following that victory, Alcaraz told the King: "Felipe, I'm really proud, you know, that you are here supporting me. Well, I played in front of you, just twice. Twice that I won. I hope you are coming more."
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The Spanish King also congratulated Martín de la Puente following his triumph in the wheelchair tennis doubles tournament
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Though Felipe was absent from last year's final, the Spanish royal household celebrated Alcaraz's 2024 triumph on social media, praising his "perfect blend of courage and talent."
Notable Hollywood figures including Nicole Kidman, Matthew McConaughey, John Lithgow and Keira Knightley were also present in the Royal Box for the prestigious final.
Princess Kate and Prince William's youngest child, Prince Louis, was notably missing from the family's appearance.
However, Kate was keen to make sure the seven-year-old was not forgotten as she requested three signed tennis balls from Sinner.
The Princess explained her eldest children were "taking one for their brother" to prevent him from feeling left out.