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Stan Wawrinka Reflects on Olympic Glory and the Journey Ahead: A Special Reunion with Roger Federer

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A magical Swiss Olympic moment: Stan Wawrinka wins gold together with Roger Federer (right) in 2008.Image: Getty Images AsiaPac

Interview

In the late autumn of his career, Stan Wawrinka is taking part in the Olympic Games for the third time. Winning the doubles tournament in 2008 with Roger Federer is a milestone with great impact for the Vaud native.

marcel hauck / keystone-sda

After 2008 and 2012, Stan Wawrinka returns to the Olympic Games as a three-time Grand Slam winner. In Gstaad, where he prepared for the tournament in Paris, the 39-year-old from Lausanne spoke about his memories of past games.

Stan Wawrinka, many people still remember the scenes of celebration in Beijing in 2008, when Roger Federer warmed himself up against you because you were so “on fire”. What are your memories?
Stan Wawrinka:
The Olympic memories are some of the best of my career. The Olympics are not just about tennis, it’s about sport in general. You get to watch other sports too. It’s a real pleasure.

What does this gold medal mean to you?
This remains one of the biggest titles of my career. Every title is important in its own way, but an Olympic medal, as I said, goes beyond tennis. It’s not just tennis fans who watch, but everyone who’s interested in sports. So this victory was super important for me.

Federer and Wawrinka are beaming with their medals.Image: AP

What significance did it have for your future career?
Every experience and every win has an impact in its own way. Celebrating a win like that so early in my career obviously gave me confidence. Sharing those memories with Roger (Federer) has given us a close bond for the rest of our careers, including Davis Cup and other things.

It created a special connection between you and Federer?
This of course creates a special bond with Seve (Severin Lüthi, Federer’s former coach and Davis Cup captain), and of course with Roger. When you spend ten days together, fighting for each other, it naturally creates a bond.

“Being the flag bearer of an entire delegation with so many champions is an incredible experience.”

In 2012 you were the Swiss flag bearer.
It was a huge honour. To be the flag bearer of an entire delegation with so many champions is an incredible experience.

When Marc Rosset became Olympic champion in Barcelona in 1992, you were seven years old.
(Laughs) Still very young.​

In London, Stan Wawrinka led the Swiss delegation.Image: AP

Do you still have memories of it?
No, not from that time. I hadn’t started playing tennis yet. I was only eight years old. Later I saw pictures of it and also talked to Marc about it. He told me a lot of anecdotes about it. It’s brilliant for a country like Switzerland to have an Olympic champion like Marc Rosset.

Starting tennis at the age of eight is very late in this day and age. You grew up on a farm, your parents looked after disadvantaged children. That is not exactly an environment that seems predestined for a professional sports career. Was that more of an advantage or a disadvantage for you?
That’s the beauty of tennis. There is no ideal path. Everyone creates their own path, everyone finds out what works best for them. There are different techniques, different coaches. In the end, there is no magic recipe, otherwise everyone would do it the same way. I am very happy with my youth and how I grew up, how my character developed, what I have achieved in tennis. It is much more than I could have imagined.

“Roger, Rafa and Novak are enormous champions and yet they remain incredibly human off the court.”

Did it also help to keep your feet on the ground?
Yes, but that’s the case with everyone. In tennis, we see that with Roger, Rafa (Nadal), Novak (Djokovic) or now Alcaraz or Sinner. They are enormous champions, more so than I was or am, and yet they remain incredibly human off the court.

Stan Wawrinka had some legendary duels with Novak Djokovic – like here in the final of the US Open 2016.Image: AP/AP READ FULL STORY HERE>>>CLICK HERE TO CONTINUE READING>>>

What is your strongest Olympic memory?
This is the week in Beijing. The time in the Swiss House, in the Olympic Village, alongside all the other athletes and especially the coaches. I was still very young. It was a huge opportunity for me to spend so much time with these people, to discuss things with them, to play cards, to laugh together.

You missed the 2016 and 2021 games – also because you celebrated such great successes then?
In such a long career, you obviously don’t always have the same priorities. In tennis in particular, you have to make decisions that aren’t always easy. Davis Cup, Olympic Games, Grand Slams, Masters 1000 – you can’t play everything if you want to get to the top. It was complicated, and I would have liked to have had the experiences in Brazil and Tokyo. But I don’t regret any of my decisions.

If you hadn’t skipped the Rio Games, you might not have won the US Open straight after.
Voilà. But you never know.

Does it matter that the games are taking place in Paris this year?
Of course. Tennis is played at Roland Garros, on clay. That also makes it easier in terms of the calendar.

“These are probably my last games. So the ambition is not to set any limits for myself and to get the best out of it.”

Will you wear special pants again like when you won the French Open in 2015?
(Laughs) At the Olympic Games, it’s the colours of Switzerland, so you have no choice. As far as I know, the shirt has to be either red or have the name of the country on the back.

What are your ambitions for Paris after what has been a difficult year so far?
I just want to give my maximum. I want to get as much out of this Olympic experience as possible, as these are probably my last Games. So the ambition is to set no limits for myself and to do the best I can.

We will not see Stan Wawrinka in such unusual trousers again in Paris.Image: EPA

Probably the last games? So 2028 is not out of the question?
(Laughs loudly) That’s way too far away to think about.​

But the motivation is obviously still there.
I hope to reach a ranking (currently 109) that is more in line with my expectations. But of course, I really like this life on the tennis tour. Five years ago I would never have thought I would still be here. But the passion is still there. Being a tennis professional is my happiness, my dream since I was young. So I want to benefit from it for as long as possible.

Do you have any idea what you would have become if you hadn’t been a professional tennis player?
No. I was lucky enough to be able to play tennis at an early age.

What was your dream job when you were seven?
I had a very good time on our farm. I worked with my father when I could. I didn’t really think about it any further than that.

Revenge against Kotov?

Stan Wawrinka will face Russian Pavel Kotov in his first round match. The two already met at the end of May at the French Open. Back then, Kotov won 7:6, 6:4, 1:6, 7:6. If Wawrinka manages to take revenge in Roland-Garros, the Chilean Nicolas Jarry, seeded number 16, and then Olympic champion Alexander Zverev would be his next possible opponents.

Viktorija Golubic, the only Swiss woman, will face Jessica Pegula, world number 5, in the opening match.

More about the Olympic Games:

2024-07-26 14:15:08
#Stan #Wawrinka #Olympic #interview #Roger #Federer #goals

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SPORTS

How Sponsorships and Betting Platforms Are Boosting the NFL

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The National Football League (NFL) has long been a powerhouse in the world of sports, captivating millions of fans every season with thrilling games, fierce rivalries, and unforgettable moments. However, the league’s growth and continued dominance aren’t solely due to the action on the field. In recent years, the influence of sponsorships and betting platforms has become a significant driver behind the NFL’s soaring popularity. This article delves into how these partnerships are not just complementing the league’s appeal but are actively boosting its reach and revenue.

The Power of Sponsorships: More Than Just Branding

Sponsorships have always played a crucial role in the NFL’s financial ecosystem. Major corporations vie for the opportunity to have their brand associated with the league, and these partnerships extend far beyond simple logo placements. The NFL’s sponsorships are deep-rooted, multifaceted collaborations that enhance fan engagement and create a seamless connection between the sport and the brands involved.

Sponsorship deals in the NFL offer brands access to a vast and diverse audience. The league’s games are watched by millions of viewers across the country and internationally, making it a prime platform for advertisers. Companies like Pepsi, Nike, and Verizon have leveraged their NFL sponsorships to not only increase brand visibility but also to engage with fans in more meaningful ways. These companies create campaigns, promotions, and experiences that resonate with NFL fans, making the league an integral part of their brand identity.

Additionally, these sponsorships inject substantial revenue into the league. The funds generated from sponsorship deals are funneled back into the NFL, supporting various initiatives such as player development, community programs, and stadium enhancements. This, in turn, improves the overall quality of the game, making the NFL experience richer for fans.

Moreover, the alignment of brands with the NFL fosters a sense of loyalty among fans. When a beloved brand supports their favorite team or the league, fans often feel a deeper connection to both the brand and the sport. This emotional bond translates into increased brand loyalty and, ultimately, higher sales for the sponsoring companies.

The Rise of Betting Platforms: A Game-Changer for Fan Engagement

The legalization of sports betting in many states across the U.S. has ushered in a new era for the NFL. Betting platforms like FanDuel sportsbook have rapidly integrated themselves into the NFL ecosystem, offering fans new and exciting ways to engage with the sport. This transformation has profoundly impacted both fan engagement and the league’s revenue streams.

Betting platforms have revolutionized how fans interact with the NFL. Previously, fans primarily engaged with the sport by watching games, attending events, or participating in fantasy football leagues. While these activities still hold immense value, betting has introduced a more dynamic and immersive way to experience the NFL. Fans can now place wagers on various aspects of the game, from predicting the outcome of a match to speculating on player performances.

This new level of engagement has made the viewing experience more interactive and exciting. Fans who place bets are likely to watch games more attentively, as they have a personal stake in the outcome. This heightened interest not only increases viewership but also encourages fans to watch games they might otherwise have skipped, broadening the league’s audience.

From a financial perspective, the integration of betting platforms has opened up new revenue streams for the NFL. The league has struck lucrative deals with major betting companies, allowing these platforms to operate within the NFL’s framework. In return, the NFL receives a share of the profits generated from bets placed on its games. This influx of revenue further bolsters the league’s financial stability and supports its growth initiatives. READ FULL STORY HERE>>>CLICK HERE TO CONTINUE READING>>>

Moreover, NFL betting platforms have created opportunities for the NFL to tap into new markets. As more states legalize sports betting, the league’s potential audience expands. Betting platforms attract not only traditional sports fans but also individuals who may not have previously been interested in the NFL. This diversification of the fan base is crucial for the league’s long-term growth, as it ensures that the NFL remains relevant in an ever-changing entertainment landscape.

The Synergy Between Sponsorships and Betting Platforms

The convergence of sponsorships and betting platforms has created a synergistic effect that amplifies the benefits of both. Sponsorship deals with betting companies have become increasingly common, further intertwining the NFL’s financial ecosystem with the world of sports betting. These partnerships create a powerful feedback loop, where increased fan engagement through betting leads to higher brand visibility and, consequently, more lucrative sponsorship deals.

Betting companies, like DraftKings and FanDuel, have capitalized on their NFL partnerships by offering exclusive promotions and odds to fans. These promotions are often tied to the league’s major events, such as the Super Bowl, and are heavily advertised through the NFL’s channels. This not only drives betting activity but also enhances the overall fan experience by providing more ways to engage with the sport.

Sponsorships also benefit from the presence of betting platforms. The heightened engagement from betting creates more opportunities for brands to connect with fans. For example, a fan who places a bet on a game is more likely to pay attention to the advertisements and promotions displayed during that game. This increased attention translates into higher returns on investment for sponsors, making the NFL an even more attractive platform for advertising.

Furthermore, the integration of betting platforms into the NFL has led to the development of new forms of content. Betting-related content, such as odds analysis, betting tips, and expert predictions, has become a staple of NFL coverage. This content is often sponsored by brands, creating additional revenue streams for both the league and the betting platforms. It also provides fans with valuable information, further enhancing their engagement with the sport.

Conclusion

The NFL’s ascent as a global sports powerhouse is not just a result of the on-field action but is also deeply tied to the strategic partnerships it has forged with sponsors and betting platforms. These relationships have not only provided the league with significant financial support but have also revolutionized how fans engage with the sport.

As the NFL continues to embrace these partnerships, it is poised to reach even greater heights, solidifying its status as the preeminent force in the world of sports. The future of the NFL is bright, and sponsorships and betting platforms will undoubtedly be at the forefront of its continued success.

READ FULL STORY HERE>>...CLICK HERE TO CONTINUE READING>>>
Continue Reading

SPORTS

How Sponsorships and Betting Platforms Are Boosting the NFL

Published

on

By

The National Football League (NFL) has long been a powerhouse in the world of sports, captivating millions of fans every season with thrilling games, fierce rivalries, and unforgettable moments. However, the league’s growth and continued dominance aren’t solely due to the action on the field. In recent years, the influence of sponsorships and betting platforms has become a significant driver behind the NFL’s soaring popularity. This article delves into how these partnerships are not just complementing the league’s appeal but are actively boosting its reach and revenue.

The Power of Sponsorships: More Than Just Branding

Sponsorships have always played a crucial role in the NFL’s financial ecosystem. Major corporations vie for the opportunity to have their brand associated with the league, and these partnerships extend far beyond simple logo placements. The NFL’s sponsorships are deep-rooted, multifaceted collaborations that enhance fan engagement and create a seamless connection between the sport and the brands involved.

Sponsorship deals in the NFL offer brands access to a vast and diverse audience. The league’s games are watched by millions of viewers across the country and internationally, making it a prime platform for advertisers. Companies like Pepsi, Nike, and Verizon have leveraged their NFL sponsorships to not only increase brand visibility but also to engage with fans in more meaningful ways. These companies create campaigns, promotions, and experiences that resonate with NFL fans, making the league an integral part of their brand identity.

Additionally, these sponsorships inject substantial revenue into the league. The funds generated from sponsorship deals are funneled back into the NFL, supporting various initiatives such as player development, community programs, and stadium enhancements. This, in turn, improves the overall quality of the game, making the NFL experience richer for fans.

Moreover, the alignment of brands with the NFL fosters a sense of loyalty among fans. When a beloved brand supports their favorite team or the league, fans often feel a deeper connection to both the brand and the sport. This emotional bond translates into increased brand loyalty and, ultimately, higher sales for the sponsoring companies.

The Rise of Betting Platforms: A Game-Changer for Fan Engagement

The legalization of sports betting in many states across the U.S. has ushered in a new era for the NFL. Betting platforms like FanDuel sportsbook have rapidly integrated themselves into the NFL ecosystem, offering fans new and exciting ways to engage with the sport. This transformation has profoundly impacted both fan engagement and the league’s revenue streams.

Betting platforms have revolutionized how fans interact with the NFL. Previously, fans primarily engaged with the sport by watching games, attending events, or participating in fantasy football leagues. While these activities still hold immense value, betting has introduced a more dynamic and immersive way to experience the NFL. Fans can now place wagers on various aspects of the game, from predicting the outcome of a match to speculating on player performances.

This new level of engagement has made the viewing experience more interactive and exciting. Fans who place bets are likely to watch games more attentively, as they have a personal stake in the outcome. This heightened interest not only increases viewership but also encourages fans to watch games they might otherwise have skipped, broadening the league’s audience.

From a financial perspective, the integration of betting platforms has opened up new revenue streams for the NFL. The league has struck lucrative deals with major betting companies, allowing these platforms to operate within the NFL’s framework. In return, the NFL receives a share of the profits generated from bets placed on its games. This influx of revenue further bolsters the league’s financial stability and supports its growth initiatives. READ FULL STORY HERE>>>CLICK HERE TO CONTINUE READING>>>

Moreover, NFL betting platforms have created opportunities for the NFL to tap into new markets. As more states legalize sports betting, the league’s potential audience expands. Betting platforms attract not only traditional sports fans but also individuals who may not have previously been interested in the NFL. This diversification of the fan base is crucial for the league’s long-term growth, as it ensures that the NFL remains relevant in an ever-changing entertainment landscape.

The Synergy Between Sponsorships and Betting Platforms

The convergence of sponsorships and betting platforms has created a synergistic effect that amplifies the benefits of both. Sponsorship deals with betting companies have become increasingly common, further intertwining the NFL’s financial ecosystem with the world of sports betting. These partnerships create a powerful feedback loop, where increased fan engagement through betting leads to higher brand visibility and, consequently, more lucrative sponsorship deals.

Betting companies, like DraftKings and FanDuel, have capitalized on their NFL partnerships by offering exclusive promotions and odds to fans. These promotions are often tied to the league’s major events, such as the Super Bowl, and are heavily advertised through the NFL’s channels. This not only drives betting activity but also enhances the overall fan experience by providing more ways to engage with the sport.

Sponsorships also benefit from the presence of betting platforms. The heightened engagement from betting creates more opportunities for brands to connect with fans. For example, a fan who places a bet on a game is more likely to pay attention to the advertisements and promotions displayed during that game. This increased attention translates into higher returns on investment for sponsors, making the NFL an even more attractive platform for advertising.

Furthermore, the integration of betting platforms into the NFL has led to the development of new forms of content. Betting-related content, such as odds analysis, betting tips, and expert predictions, has become a staple of NFL coverage. This content is often sponsored by brands, creating additional revenue streams for both the league and the betting platforms. It also provides fans with valuable information, further enhancing their engagement with the sport.

Conclusion

The NFL’s ascent as a global sports powerhouse is not just a result of the on-field action but is also deeply tied to the strategic partnerships it has forged with sponsors and betting platforms. These relationships have not only provided the league with significant financial support but have also revolutionized how fans engage with the sport.

As the NFL continues to embrace these partnerships, it is poised to reach even greater heights, solidifying its status as the preeminent force in the world of sports. The future of the NFL is bright, and sponsorships and betting platforms will undoubtedly be at the forefront of its continued success.

READ FULL STORY HERE>>...CLICK HERE TO CONTINUE READING>>>
Continue Reading

SPORTS

Is Rafa Nadal the best tennis player in history after adding a new Australian Open 2022?

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Rafa Nadal made history at the Australian Open after beating Medvedev in a 2022 Australian Open final to remember. The Balearic tennis player, who came to the tournament with many doubts after his physical problems in his left foot, showed -once again- the courage he treasures and was able to turn the match around against a Daniil Medvedev who went up two sets …and that seemed to fly straight to his first Australian Open. Nothing is further from reality. And it is that Rafael Nadal did not lose focus and helped by greater efficiency in the first service and a much deeper and more accurate ‘drive’ managed to turn the score around and beat the Russian in an epic final of more than five hours. Nadal was crowned the new king of the Australian Open. Nadal repeated the success of 2009. Nadal confirmed himself as a great legend.

Nadal, king of the Australian Open 2022

After the resounding absence of Novak Djokovic, Rafa Nadal began his career against the American Marcos Giron, whom he easily beat in three sets, as well as his next rival, the German Hanfmann. His first major clash at the 2022 Australian Open was the one in which he faced the Russian Khachanov in round of 16, against whom he lost his first set of the tournament to finally win 6-3, 6-2, 3-6 and 6-1 . In the quarterfinals, Rafa Nadal also suffered to defeat Frenchman Mannarino, especially after a first set that ended in a tie break of up to 28 minutes. And in rooms Denis Shapovalov. Eye. READ FULL STORY HERE>>>CLICK HERE TO CONTINUE READING>>>

From weighing retirement to rising as the best

The aggressive game of the Canadian, one of the tennis players called to dominate world tennis in the coming years, put the Balearic against the ropes and was able to overcome a deficit of two sets down. However, Nadal recovered and reached the semifinals, where he also dismantled the ‘bombardier’ ​​Mario Berrettini (another who is very strong on the circuit).

Nadal is left alone in the Olympus of tennis

The Australian Open final against Daniiel Medvedev was another story. Major words, maximum demand and extreme suffering. This time the Russian put aside his most controversial side (against Tsitsipas Medvedev he called the referee stupid) and based on ‘aces’ and crossed backhands he put Rafa Nadal, one of the most talented tennis players of the Open era, on the ropes. .if not the largest in history. Of course, the Balearic pulled pride and got an epic comeback.

Nadal, better than Federer and Djokovic?

Nadal’s triumph at the 2022 Australian Open has allowed him to add his 21st Grand Slam title, thus undoing the equality that prevailed between Novak Djokovic, Roger Federer and the Balearic himself at the world tennis scepter. As if that were not enough, Rafa Nadal has another 36 Masters 1000 titles, in addition to 5 Davis Cups and 2 Olympic gold medals (one single and one in doubles). Taking these numbers into account, do you think Rafael Nadal is the best tennis player in history?

READ FULL STORY HERE>>...CLICK HERE TO CONTINUE READING>>>
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