Image: Youtube/Wimbledon
Belgian former tennis pro Kim Clijsters put meaning to the phrase “show, don’t tell” when she invited a fan down to play in Wimbledon’s invitation doubles.
Given that the invitation doubles is one of the more laid-back parts of the tournament, the four-time Grand Slam champion asked the audience for advice on how to serve.
Tennis fan Chris Quinn yelled from the stands that she should try a body serve, which is when the ball is served toward’s the opponent’s body. Quinn is the captain of a tennis club in his home country of Ireland.
An incredulous Clijsters then called him down to try it out, to the roaring laughter and applause of the crowd.
Spanish tennis star Conchita Martinez handed him her racket so he could play. But Quinn, who was garbed in a Green Lantern shirt and blue shorts, still had to abide by Wimbledon regulations which stipulate that players must be in all-white attires.
Clijsters grabbed a spare white skirt in her bag and put it on Quinn even if he initially hesitated. The skirt was a perfect fit.
After he changed into an athletic white shirt, Clijsters offered an expert serve to him—to which the Irishman was able to return. Though it was a high volley, the ball went over the net.
Watch the video here:
Clijsters and Quinn were friendly afterwards and even exchanged tweets. Quinn said his three daughters were huge fans of the Belgian tennis legend:
You were awesome! Nice meeting you Chris ! :-)
— Kim Clijsters (@Clijsterskim) July 15, 2017
For his bravery, the daring fan got to keep the former number-one-ranked player’s skirt. He said on Twitter that he would be auctioning it off and proceeds will go to charity. JB
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