Turkish tennis player Zeynep Sönmez showcased her compassionate side during an Australian Open match. While she was preparing to serve against Russia’s Ekaterina Alexandrova, a ball girl fainted nearby. Immediately, Sönmez recognized the urgency of the situation and paused the game.
She rushed over to the ball girl, who briefly got back on her feet but then collapsed again in Sönmez’s arms. With the chair umpire’s help, Sönmez escorted the girl to a shaded area, where she could rest and receive medical assistance. The match was paused for about six minutes, allowing the necessary care to be provided.
After the incident, Sönmez shared her concerns, stating, “She was struggling. Even if she said she was fine, it was pretty clear she wasn’t. I told her to sit down and drink some water.”
Fortunately, the ball girl received help, and Sönmez later went on to win the match with a score of 7-5, 4-6, 6-4, pulling off an impressive upset against the 11th-seeded Alexandrova.
The day was particularly hot, with temperatures hitting 82 degrees Fahrenheit and expected to rise to 95 degrees later that week. Such conditions can be challenging for players and staff alike. Sönmez’s instinct to help highlighted how important it is to look out for one another, especially in demanding environments.
She emphasized her belief that being a good person is priority over sporting achievements, saying, “I think everyone would do the same. I’m happy I got to help.”
This incident reflects a growing awareness of athlete welfare and sportsmanship in tennis, where player interactions extend beyond the competition. As the sport evolves, we might see more athletes stepping up in similar situations, proving that kindness can shine through even in competitive settings.
For more information on tennis player rankings and related news, visit the WTA Tennis Rankings.
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Zeynep Sönmez, tennis player, Zeynep Sonmez, Ekaterina Alexandrova, Australian Open, Sönmez
