A “moment” that they will “never” forget. The Frenchman Ugo Humbert and the British Cameron Norrie met dozens of children at the Caen Tennis Open, this Wednesday, December 11, 2024. The children were able to exchange with both players.
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“Have you ever wanted to quit tennis?” Moved, Noémie, 11 years old, asks Ugo Humbert and Cameron Norrie her question. “Yes, of course, it’s happened to me before. Sometimes it’s complicated”replies the French player.
In the stands, this Wednesday, December 11, 2024, there are dozens of children coming from tennis clubs from the four corners of Normandy. Lovers of this sport who, microphone in hand, can exchange with their idols: “I’m so happy to have been able to ask a question, it’s a unique moment”tells us Laura, 10 years old. “It doesn’t happen often in life, they are professional players”explains Clément 10 years old.
The children were able to ask many questions to their favorite players.
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© Kanwaljit Singh
Then it’s time for photos to immortalize this moment. The children pose club by club with the tennis stars: “It was crazy, we were very close to Ugo. He is very strong, he is an excellent player“, tells us Alexis, 10 years old, with tears in his eyes. Sometimes, some people dare to exchange a little word face-to-face: “It’s incredible, I was able to talk to him about his last competition at the Paris Rolex Masters. I’m so happy to have been able to talk to him. It’s a moment that I will never forget”confides Paul.
The children were able to interact with their idols.
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© Kanwaljit Singh
He adds: “I’m in my 3rd year of tennis, it makes me want to continue, persevere and become professional”. Same observation for Suzanne, 10 years old: “I admire these players, they are a real role model. I want to play like them when I grow up.”
Ugo Humbert and Cameron Norrie spoke at length with the children.
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© Kanwaljit Singh
Cameron Norrie is the second highest ranked ATP player in this 2024 field (49th) behind Ugo Humbert (11th) and alongside them, spending this moment with the young people is essential for the players: “It’s important for me to be there. When I was young, I saw professional players passing by. Having my little moment with them, having a photo and having a quick chat with them, these are moments that have remained engraved in I want them to feel the same way.explains Ugo Humbert.
The young French player, 26 years old, adds: “It’s important for me to pass on this passion and meet these young enthusiasts.”
For Ugo Humbert, it is important to offer a moment of exchange with young people.
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© Thomas Tavitian
“It’s important because we are a source of inspiration and they can see that we are normal people who we can interact with. It’s really great to be with them and answer their questions,” concludes Briton Cameron Norrie.
A few last photos and the players leave to the applause of the children whose eyes are shining.
