David Beckham remained in his seat in Wimbledon’s Royal Box as it emptied out after the men’s tennis finished on Monday – a gesture that earned him praise from world No. 2 Aryna Sabalenka.
The former England footballer was one of the few celebrities still present on Centre Court as the final points were played, while many other high‑profile guests headed for the exits. Sabalenka, who was preparing for her own match, later commended Beckham for his dedication, saying she noticed he stayed until the very end.
“David Beckham praised by Aryna Sabalenka for staying in Wimbledon Royal Box as others left after men's tennis.”
Beckham’s presence on day one of the Championships at the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club had already drawn attention, but it was his refusal to leave early that became the talking point. The Royal Box, which typically fills with stars from sport, entertainment and politics, had thinned out noticeably as the men’s singles session concluded.
The following day, a fresh wave of celebrities took their seats in the Royal Box. Richard Osman and his wife Ingrid Oliver led the arrivals, with the author, 55, wearing a light‑blue suit and Ingrid, 49, in a cream and black pinstripe suit. Former England cricketer Stuart Broad and his wife, Saturdays singer Mollie King, coordinated in neutral tones, while Irish actress Fiona Shaw sat directly in front of them in a plum‑toned shirt, accompanied by her wife Sonali Deraniyagala. BBC Radio 1 presenter Greg James, 40, was seated next to Broad and King, and actress Celia Imrie, 73, was spotted chatting to Shaw. Nick Robinson, the Today programme presenter, also spoke to James in the box.
But it was Beckham’s behaviour on the opening day that Sabalenka highlighted. The tennis star’s public recognition of his patience and respect for the sport has added a fresh layer of admiration for the former Manchester United and Real Madrid midfielder, who is a regular at Wimbledon.