A familiar face was spotted at Melbourne Park on Monday.
Dual international Sonny Bill Williams was at the venue to cheer on family friend James McCabe, who defeated Spanish teenager Martin Landalus 6-4, 6-3, 6-4 in the first round of the Australian Open. I was there.
The 21-year-old credits Williams’ support with helping him secure his first Grand Slam victory, even calling out to the World Cup winner while his opponent was taking a toilet break.
James McCabe celebrates his victory. getty
“I’ve known Sonny since I was a kid. We’re very close, family friends. I just wanted him to get off,” McCabe told the Sydney Morning Herald. Ta.
“He came last year too. He came to Adelaide. Sonny is like a brother to me. Sonny is great.”
Sonny Bill Williams (C) poses for a photo after McCabe’s victory. getty
He’s like Sonny in particular has all the experience of being Sonny and being one of the greatest players to ever step on the field. But yeah, his words of wisdom and everything just…I’m so lucky. ”
Williams told the magazine that he “doesn’t know much about tennis” but was on Court 6 to support a longtime family friend.
“We’re just friends. I’ve known him since I was little. I’m also a friend of his old man and family, and we’re good friends,” he said.
“He’s just a good young man. To be honest, I don’t know much about tennis, but whatever he needs from me, I’m here.
Williams sits in McCabe’s box. getty
“I’m just here to support a young man. I’ve known him since he was probably 10 or 11 years old, so I’ve known him for a long time. But that’s about it. It’s a simple message.
McCabe is scheduled to face American Alex Michelsen, who defeated Stefanos Tsitsipas in the second round, while Williams is expected to compete once again.
“Of course,” Williams said. “We’re there, and we’re ready to go again.”
