Celebrities of Sports....

F1: Kimi Raikkonen wins Australian Grand prix...

noreply@blogger.com (sportsfreak) — Tue, 19 Mar 2013 05:22:00 +0000

Kimi Raikkonen got off to a perfect start in the 2013 F1 season by winning the Australian Grand prix in Melbourne last weekend. Riding on a 2 pit-stop strategy, the Finn Raikkonen preserved his car and drove an impeccable race and scored a victory for his Lotus team.
Fernando Alonso of Ferrari and reigning F1 champion Sebastian Vettel for Red Bull Racing completed the podium at the Australian Grand Prix F1 race.

Finn Kimi Raikkonen with the Australian Grand Prix 2013 F1 title for Lotus

Pic courtesy: Kimi Raikkonen (Twitter)

F1 2013 Season - Race 1 round-up
Race - Australian Grand Prix, Melbourne
Date - 15-17 March, 2013

Pole Position after qualification:
1. Sebastian Vettel of Red Bull Racing-Renault
2. Mark Webber of Red Bull Racing-Renault
3. Lewis Hamilton of Mercedes

Podium Finishes:
1. Kimi Raikkonen of Lotus-Renault
2. Fernando Alonso of Ferrari
3. Sebastian Vettel of Red Bull Racing-Renault

2013 Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix Podium winners - Kimi Raikkonen, Fernando Alonso and Sebastian Vettel

Pic courtesy: www.grandprix.com.au

Kimi Raikkonen, Alonso and Vettel celebrate podium finishes at the Australian F1 Grand prix

Pic courtesy: Getty Images

Kimi Raikkonen in his Lotus racing car at the 2013 season of F1 Australian Grand prix in Melbourne

Pic courtesy: Getty Images

Australian Grand Prix Pole positions for Vettel, Webber and Hamilton

Pic courtesy: www.grandprix.com.au

A good start for the F1 season.. seems Lotus, Ferrari, Red Bull and Mercedes all have good speeds and will compete to win races this F1 season... would be interesting to see what happens in the next race...

Nadal and Sharapova - Winners of BNP Paribas Open

noreply@blogger.com (sportsfreak) — Mon, 18 Mar 2013 05:12:00 +0000

Rafael Nadal won his first major tournament after his comeback from a long injury layoff... in a tournament which fared the entire fab four group of Federer, Nadal, Djokovic and Murray. It is an amazing comeback by Nadal and looks like he is a force to reckon with again...

Rafael Nadal staved off quite a challenge by the tall Argentinian Juan Martin Del Potro beating him 4-6 6-3 6-4 in the finals of the BNP Paribas Open 2013 men's championships.

Rafael Nadal with Indian Wells BNP Paribas trophy celebrating his big victory after a long injury layoff...

Pic courtesy: Getty Images

Rafael Nadal wins Indian Wells Open beating Juan Martin Del Potro in a hard fought victory

Pic courtesy: Getty Images

In the BNP Paribas Open women's championships, Maria Sharapova beat Caroline Wozniacki in straight sets 6-2, 6-2 for an easy victory. This is the Russian’s first title of the season and 28th overall.

Maria Sharapova with her BNP Paribas trophy after beating Caroline Wozniacki of Denmark in the finals at Indian Wells

Pic courtesy: Getty Images

Russian top seeded Maria Sharapova with her Indian Wells BNP Paribas trophy poses for a photograph in front of WTA 40 Love campaign

Pic courtesy: Getty Images

A good start for both Sharapova and Nadal.. hope they continue their form for the rest of the season too!
The men's season looks quite promising with Federer, Nadal, Djokovic and Murray in the race... plus Del Potro, Berdych and Tsonga giving a good fight too.. tight and fighting tournaments ahead for the mens :)

Laureus World Sports Awards 2013 winners....

noreply@blogger.com (sportsfreak) — Sat, 16 Mar 2013 23:31:00 +0000

Usain Bolt and Jessica Ennis were the big winners at the Laureus World Sports Awards for 2013 which got over a few days earlier on March 11th, 2013 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

Sprinter Usain Bolt of Jamaica poses with the award for Laureus World Sportsman of the Year 2013

Pic courtesy: Marc Serota/Getty Images

The Laureus World Sports Awards are awarded annually to sportspeople who have been outstanding during the previous year. And last year 2012 has been the year of London Olympics.. so, some names from the winners there too..

Here is the list of winners of the Laureus World Sports Award 2013.

Laureus World Sportsman of the Year - Usain Bolt of Jamica
Laureus World Sportswoman of the Year - Jessica Ennis of England
Laureus World Team of the Year - European Ryder Cup Team (Golf)
Laureus World Breakthrough of the Year - Andy Murray of Great Britain
Laureus World Comeback of the Year - Felix Sanchez of Dominican Republic
Laureus World Action Sportsperson of the Year - Felix Baumgartner of Austria
Laureus World Sportsperson of the Year with a Disability - Daniel Dias of Brazil

Track and field athlete Jessica Ennis of United Kingdom receives her award for Laureus Sportswomen of the Year

Pic courtesy: Ian Walton/Getty Images

Scottish tennis star Andy Murray of Great Britain poses with the award for Laureus World Breakthrough of the Year

Pic coutesy: Getty Images

Skydiver Felix Baumgartner of Austria won the Laureus World Action Sportsperson of the Year

Pic coutesy: Getty Images

Athlete Felix Sanchez won the award for Laureus World Comeback of the Year

Pic courtesy: Jamie McDonald/Getty Images For Laureus

Michael Phelps receives his Laureus Academy Exceptional Acheivement Award which is a first from Laureus

Pic courtesy: Ian Walton/Getty Images

Actress Eva Longoria didn't win any award :) but graced her presence at the Laureus Sports awards event at the Theatro Municipal Do Rio de Janeiro in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

Pic courtesy: Buda Mendes/Getty Images

Daniel Dias receives his award for Laureus World Sportsperson of the Year with a Disablity at the Laureus Sports award event

Pic courtesy: Ian Walton/Getty Images

Usain Bolt in his usual Bolt pose with his Laureus World Sportsman of the Year 2013 award. The Jamaican sprinter won the World Sportsman of the Year award for third time.

Pic coutesy: Getty Images

Jessica Ennis who won heptathlon gold in London 2012 Olympics was awarded the Laureus World Sportswoman of the Year award

Pic courtesy: Gareth Cattermole/Getty Images

Dominican athlete Felix Sanchez won the World Comeback of the Year Award

Pic courtesy: Gareth Cattermole/Getty Images

Skydiver Felix Baumgartner poses with his trophy for Laureus World Action Sportsperson of the Year

Pic courtesy: Gareth Cattermole/Getty Images

Olympic multiple gold medal winner Michael Phelps with his Laureus Academy Exceptional Acheivement Award

Gareth Cattermole/Getty Images

Caroline Wozniacki's Rolex association

noreply@blogger.com (sportsfreak) — Tue, 12 Mar 2013 05:09:00 +0000

Caroline Wozniacki has been associated with Rolex since 2010 when she entered into an endorsement deal with the popular and traditional tennis time keepers Rolex.

Caroline Wozniacki's Rolex watch print ad

Danish tennis player Caroline Wozniacki's Rolex endorsement

Caroline Wozniacki of Denmark and Agnieszka Radwanska visited the Rolex hospitality prior their match as part of the Hong Kong Showdown at the Asia-World Expo on March 4, 2013 in Hong Kong, China. Some of the pictures of that Rolex event and other Wozniacki's Rolex print ad shared below.

Caroline Wozniacki and Agnieszka Radwanska visit Rolex hospitality in Hong Kong

Caroline Wozniacki standing infront of her print ad for Rolex watches

Caroline Wozniacki poses for the camera infront of her Rolex print advertisements

Caroline Wozniacki's Rolex watch endorsement deal is on since 2010

Denmark's tennis player Caroline Wozniacki poses for a photo shoot for Rolex watches

Pretty Danish tennis sensation Wozniacki in a Rolex print advertisement

Rolex watches endorsement by Caroline Wozniacki

Pictures courtesy from the numerous internet sites and some from Caroline Wozniacki's own website too..

WTA 40 Love Campaign launches...

noreply@blogger.com (sportsfreak) — Mon, 11 Mar 2013 05:11:00 +0000

The Women's Tennis Association (WTA) will honor four decades of growth and achievements throughout 2013 with a season-long integrated marketing campaign named 40 LOVE, which was launched on Wednesday 6th March at the BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells.

Sharapova launching the WTA 40 Love campaign celebrating WTAs 40 years success

Pic courtesy: Sharapova's facebook page

As part of the celebrations a special logo was been launched and there will be a one-time gathering of former world No.1s in London later this year.

"The WTA has a storied history that is both inspirational and empowering," said Stacey Allaster, chairman and CEO of the WTA. "Billie Jean King's vision has become a reality, and 40 LOVE is a celebration of the world's No. 1 sport for women."

Here is a video from WTA's youtube channel launching the 40 LOVE campaign.

Showcasing the pioneers of the game and the current stars that all contributed to the ongoing success of women's professional tennis, 40 LOVE is an international marketing campaign that utilizes multiple platforms, with a focus on increased fan engagement around the world. Leveraging the WTA's 54 tournaments in 33 countries and the game's global icons, the WTA will honor historic milestones, headlined by a celebration of women's tennis and the champions of the WTA at an event that will include the gathering of former World No.1s in London.

Maria Sharapova showcases 40 LOVE logo

Pic courtesy: Sharapova's facebook page

Russia's Maria Sharapova shoots for WTA 40 Love Campaign

Pic courtesy: Sharapova's facebook page

The WTA also launched a new, special anniversary 40 LOVE logo to celebrate four spectacular decades of women's tennis. This new mark is an extension of the current WTA logo, a distinctive and modern reminder of the captivating athleticism and excitement that has driven the international popularity and growth of women's professional tennis and placed it firmly at the nexus of sport and entertainment. The 40 LOVE brand mark will be fully integrated throughout the WTA and women's tennis, including through on-court net signage, in television graphics, print materials, tournament branding, advertising, promotion, and digital and social media throughout the 40th Anniversary season.

Tennis star Sharapova launches WTA 40 Love Campaign logo

Pic courtesy: Sharapova's facebook page

Fans can follow 40 LOVE throughout 2013 at wtatennis.com, facebook.com/wta and twitter.com/wta.

"It's the 40th anniversary of the WTA this year and I am helping them launch a cool new campaign called 40 Love. Here are some fun images we shot yesterday to celebrate," said Sharapova via her Facebook fan page and sharing some of these pictures from the photoshoot.

Federer, Nadal, Djokovic, Azarenka & Ivanovic at Indian Wells expansion program

noreply@blogger.com (sportsfreak) — Sun, 10 Mar 2013 08:41:00 +0000

Getting Roger Feder, Rafael Nadal, Victoria Azarenka and Ana Ivanovic all under one frame is pretty rare. But, it did happen earlier this week at the Indian Wells Tennis Garden, the home for BNP Paribas Open.. which is a pretty popular tennis event outside the four grand slams.

Top tennis stars came to lay the foundation for the expansion of Indian Wells tennis garden with Larry Ellison, CEO of Oracle and co-owner of the BNP Paribas event....

From left - Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, Larry Ellison, Ana Ivanovic, Victoria Azarenka and Novak Djokovic at the Indian Wells Tennis Garden expansion event

Pic coutesy: Nadal's facebook page

Some of the expansion ideas shared by Larry Ellison includes a court-side Sushi and a new 8,000 seat stadium.

Take a look at some of the pictures taken during the ground breaking ceremony of the expansion program at Indian Wells Tennis Garden headed by Raymond Moore, the CEO of BNP PARIBAS Open.

Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, Ana Ivanovic, Victoria Azarenka and Novak Djokovic serve during the Indian Wells expansion program ground breaking ceremony

Pic courtesy: Azarenka's facebook page

"How cool is this!? Roger, Rafa, Ana, me and Djokovic serving at the photographers!! Sorry guys ;)," said Vika Azarenka on her facebook page

Ivanovic, Nadal, Federer, Azarenka and Djokovic does the ground breaking formalities at the Indian Wells expansion site with Larry Ellison, the CEO of Oracle and partner at the BNP Paribas Open

Pic coutesy: Nadal's facebook page

Azarenka shares a light moment during the photo shoot of the BNP Paribas Indian Wells event expansion program

BNP Paribas Open expansion ground breaking ceremony conducted at Indian Wells and attended by the tennis stars Federer, Nadal, Djokovic, Azarenka and Ivanovic

Pic credit: Billie Weiss/BNP Paribas Open

Formula 1 2013 Season Schedule

noreply@blogger.com (sportsfreak) — Sun, 10 Mar 2013 06:13:00 +0000

Formula 1 2013 season is about to start in a few days... March 17th, 2013 to be precise with the Australian GP.

Formula 1 2013 season to have 19 races... starts on March 17th with the Australian GP in Melbourne.

This year the F1 season is to have a total of 19 races as opposed to the initial plan of 20 races. This decision was confirmed by the Formula 1's governing body and the F1 boss Bernie Ecclestone. The inaugural Grand Prix of America that was planned to happen in New Jersey on June 16th is postponed to 2014 due to a financing problem as mentioned by the organizers. Hence, the total race for the 2013 F1 season is 19.

Formula 1 2013 season schedule

17 March	Australia (Melbourne)
24 March	Malaysia (Sepang)
14 April	China (Shanghai)
21 April	Bahrain (Sakhir)
12 May	Spain (Barcelona)
26 May	Monaco
9 June	Canada (Montreal)
30 June	Britain (Silverstone)
7 July	Germany (Nurburgring/Hockenheim)
28 July	Hungary (Hungaroring)
25 August	Belgium (Spa-Francorchamps)
8 September	Italy (Monza)
22 September	Singapore (Marina Bay)
6 October	Korea (Yeongam)
13 October	Japan (Suzuka)
27 October	India (New Delhi)
3 November	Abu Dhabi (Yas Marina)
17 November	United States (Austin)
24 November	Brazil (Interlagos)

So, whom do you think will take the 2013 Formula 1 championship? Which team has the edge to take the constructor championship? Tough one isn't it? My money on Alonso and Ferrari.... probably its Ferrari's season - From an optimistic hardcore Ferrari fan :)

Caroline Wozniacki and Rory McIlroy backing each other

noreply@blogger.com (sportsfreak) — Sun, 10 Mar 2013 03:38:00 +0000

Rory McIlroy, the World Number 1 Golf player and Caroline Wozniacki, a top tennis women player used to be the hottest couple in the town when both of them at their top of the games came together and started dating since the summer of 2011. But, all of a sudden the whole world is talking about these two stars whose form has taken quite a slump since they started seeing each other.

Northern Ireland's golfer Rory McIlroy and tennis girlfriend Caroline Wozniacki of Denmark taking a hit in their careers but not in their relationship

Caroline Wozniacki's struggle to win a grandslam has tough been widely talked about, she was still good at her game but last year her ranking slipped further and she is currently ranked 10th and hasn't been doing well of late.
On the other side, Rory McIlroy has yet to make a cut this year, and last week he stormed off the course in the middle of an awful round and withdrew from the Honda Classic citing a silly reason too (a tootache!)

Danish tennis star Caroline Wozniacki with boyfriend Rory McIlroy during a vacation

Pic courtesy: McIlroy's twitter

Many predicted they might part ways but Caroline Wozniacki replied to a small group of reporters at the BNP Paribas Open, “We’ve been in the media spotlight for so long separate as well, you know, so it’s not like it’s something new. I think we’ve gotten used to that part of it. We don’t really pay attention to it anymore. Unless it’s a rumor like the there was the other day that we’ve broken up and I was like ‘Oh really? I didn’t realize that. Thanks for letting me know.’”

Rory McIlroy playing tennis with girlfriend Caroline Wozniacki

Pic courtesy: UPI/John Angelillo

Madly in love - Rory McIlroy and Caroline Wozniacki dating

Golfer Rory McIlroy with tennis superstar Caroline Wozniacki sharing Christmas 2012 pictures with all the fans

Pic courtesy: McIlroy's twitter

Rory McIlroy and his girlfriend, tennis star Caroline Wozniacki, pose with his trophy (left) for winning the Europen Tour money title and his trophy (right) for winning the DP World Tour Championship

Pic courtesy: Michael Casey, Associated Press

Caroline Wozniacki supporting boyfriend Rory McIlroy at the golf circuit in Dubai

Cute couples Caroline Wozniacki and Rory McIlroy share a laugh

But seriously guys.... give these wonderful couple a break... Given the amount of scrutiny that goes into all these celebrity sportstar's lives, its tough to live upto expectations... heck.. its tough to even have a private life. I'm sure Rory will regain his form and come back strongly, though he should accept the blame himself and work on his game rather than finding excuses. As for Wozniacki, what can I say.... this pretty Danish star has got a good game but need to have the fire power to win grandslams.. She is still young.. so, lets hope she works on that and comes back to win a grandslam.
As for the couple, Rory McIlroy and Caroline Wozniacki... enjoy your time together.. thats what I'll say :)

Players with Legends - Djokovic with Pete Sampras

noreply@blogger.com (sportsfreak) — Wed, 06 Mar 2013 05:57:00 +0000

Another one in the Players with Legends series - World Number one tennis player Novak Djokovic met the legendary Tennis star Pete Sampras... one of all time bests in tennis...

Novak Djokovic shared this picture with his fans in facebook... was so happy to see these two players in one frame...

Legendary tennis star Pete Sampras of US with Novak Djokovic, the current World No.1 tennis player

Pic courtesy: Novak Djokovic's facebook

Nazem Kadri - NHL Toronto Maple Leafs' rising star

noreply@blogger.com (sportsfreak) — Sun, 03 Mar 2013 03:44:00 +0000

Canada's Nazem Kadri is a professional ice hockey player playing for the Toronto Maple Leafs National Hockey League (NHL) team for the past four seasons since he was drafted seventh overall in the 2009 NHL Entry Draft.

Rising Toronto Maple Leafs' star player Nazem Kadri

Kadri had a lot to prove this 2012-13 NHL season as time was running out for him being in the fringes of the Toronto Maple Leafs for the past few years, save for a decent previous season for which he is still in the team. But, this season he has proved to be the dark horse for the Toronto Maple Leafs and he also notched his first hattrick for the Maple Leafs playing against the New York Islanders on February 28th, 2013.

Nazem Kadri is a practicing Muslim is the first known Muslim to be drafted into the NHL.
Kadri also has a silver medal representing Canada at the 2010 World Junior Championships.

Nazem Kadri scored his first hat-trick for Toronto Maple Leafs in the game against New York Islanders which they eventually won 5-4 in overtime

Rising star Toronto Maple Leafs' Nazem Kadri wallpaper

Toronto Maple Leafs and Toronto Marlies player Nazem Kadri smiling

Toronto Maple Leafs player Nazem Kadri's autograph

Pics courtesy: Toronto Maple Leafs site and other fan sites

Here is wishing Nazem Kadri an awesome NHL season and a bright future ahead too!

Players with Legends: Maradona meets Wozniacki, Sania and Bethanie

noreply@blogger.com (sportsfreak) — Sat, 02 Mar 2013 20:14:00 +0000

Starting a new series.... Players with Legends.... when current players run into the Legends of sports....

The first of the series is soccer legend Diego Maradona of Argentina Danish meeting tennis stars Caroline Wozniacki, Sania Mirza and Bethanie Mattek-Sands at the Dubai Championships on February 20th 2013.

Football legend Diego Maradona poses with tennis star Caroline Wozniacki of Denmark during the WTA Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championship.

Wozniacki also got an autographed Maradona's football jersey

Pic courtesy: Caroline Wozniacki's twitter

WTA Dubai Duty Free Tennis doubles champions Sania Mirza and Bethanie Mattek-Sands pose with soccer legend Diego Maradona

Pic courtesy: Bethanie Mattek-Sand's twitter

Caroline Wozniacki said in her twitter "Had the honor to meet and talk to the legend of football! :))"

Pic courtesy: Caroline Wozniacki's twitter

Soccer legend Diego Maradona kisses the doubles champion Bethanie Mattek-Sands of USA who won the women's doubles title with India's Sania Mirza

Pic courtesy: Bethanie Mattek-Sand's twitter

Football legend Diego Maradona meeting tennis star Caroline Wozniacki of Denmark

Pic courtesy: Getty Images

Football legend Diego Maradona of Argentina meets Caroline Wozniacki of Denmark during the WTA Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championship

Pic courtesy: Julian Finney/Getty Images

NHL Pittsburgh Penguins' star Sidney Crosby

noreply@blogger.com (sportsfreak) — Thu, 28 Feb 2013 06:00:00 +0000

Sidney Crosby - Does this name ring a bell? For those who follow the NHL league, this name would be synonymous to Sachin Tendulkar of cricket.
Sidney Crosby is a Canadian professional ice hockey player. Crosby captains the Pittsburgh Penguins' team of the National Hockey League (NHL).

NHL Pittsburgh Penguins' captain Sidney Crosby of Canada

Sidney Crosby was drafted first overall by the Pittsburgh Penguins team in the year 2005 and has been playing with them ever since. He became the younges

By his second season, Sidney Crosby led the NHL with 120 points (36 goals, 84 assists) and captured the Art Ross Trophy, becoming the youngest player and the only teenager to win a scoring title in any major North American sports league.

Sidney Crosby became the captain of the Pittsburgh Penguins team during the 2007-08 NHL season and led them to the Stanley Cup finals which they eventually lost. But, the following year 2008-09 season, Sidney Crosby led the Pittsburgh Penguins team to their third Stanley Cup victory in the year 2009.

Sidney Crosby is the youngest captain in NHL history to win the Stanley Cup

Canada's Sidney Crosby smiles with his gold medal after scoring the overtime winner in the 3-2 victory over USA during men's ice hockey gold medal final at the 2010 Winter Olympic Games in Vancouver

Pic courtesy: THE CANADIAN PRESS

Sidney Crosby started out as The Kid of NHL and was touted as "The Next One" which he ultimately proved right

Sidney Crosby winning the Stanley Cup for Pittsburgh Penguins in the year 2009

Sidney Crosby posing shirtless for a photoshoot

Sidney Crosby's autographed picture

Handsome Sidney Crosby in the Pittsburgh magazine covers

Don't you think that Sidney Crosby is the Sachin Tendulkar of cricket or the Lionel Messi of soccer?? :)

Rafael Nadal's Bacardi "Mix with Rafa" event..

noreply@blogger.com (sportsfreak) — Mon, 18 Feb 2013 07:52:00 +0000

Rafael Nadal is back in action.. this time off court as the global social responsibility ambassador of Bacardi's "Champions Drink Responsibly" campaign.

Bacardi Limited's “Champions Drink Responsibly” campaign offers the chance to “Mix with Rafa” in a new online promotion to meet him in person.

Rafael Nadal poses for Bacardi Limited's Champions Drink Responsibly campaign

@championsdrinkresponsibly

Fans who successfully answer three questions relating to responsible drinking behavior will go into a free prize draw to win a trip to “The Champions’ Party.”

Nadal's "Mix with Rafa" contest poster to meet him personally at the Champions' Party

@championsdrinkresponsibly

This competition is open till 8 April 2013, and legal drinking age consumers can enter the competition via the “Champions Drink Responsibly” Facebook page. “The Champions’ Party” will be hosted by multiple Grand Slam winner and tennis champion Rafael Nadal. The Bacardi Limited Global Social Responsibly Ambassador has taken a personal interest in this new promotion and helped the “Champions Drink Responsibly” team select the location, entertainment, music, food and drink for the one-of-a-kind party. The undisclosed venue will be spectacular, with international DJs and world-class Bacardi mixologists preparing cocktails and mocktails (non-alcoholic cocktails) for the lucky winners and their guests.

"I try to beat everyone at tennis, not at drinking", says Rafa Nadal in the Champions Drink Responsibly campaign by Bacardi Limited

@championsdrinkresponsibly

Rafael Nadal in Champions Drink Responsibly campaign for Bacardi Limited

Rafa saying "I'd always tell my friends where the line is"

@championsdrinkresponsibly

Rafa Nadal, the the global social responsibility ambassador of Bacardi Limited

@championsdrinkresponsibly

Rafael Nadal with a social message for Bacardi Limited Champions Drink Responsibly campaign

@championsdrinkresponsibly

Keep it together says Rafa Nadal in this poster for Bacardi Limited's Champions Drink Responsibly campaign

@championsdrinkresponsibly

The “Champions Drink Responsibly” campaign was first introduced by Bacardi Limited in April 2008 and featured seven-time Formula 1 World Champion Michael Schumacher with the message “Drinking and Driving Don’t Mix.”

This is an important campaign and the message that these stars are trying to convey shouldn't be lost in the race to meet Nadal. But yeah.... try your luck in the contest @championsdrinkresponsibly and see if you can meet Rafa at the Champions' Party.

WAGS: Rafael Nadal and girlfriend Xisca

noreply@blogger.com (sportsfreak) — Mon, 18 Feb 2013 02:38:00 +0000

Rafael Nadal and Maria Francisca Perello - One of my favourite tennis celebrity couple. Nadal and Xisca (as Maria Perello is fondly called) are seeing each other since 2005 and the relationship is almost 9 years old. The key to their strong relationship - trying to stay away from public eye and maintain their private life as quietly as possible.

Rafael Nadal and his girlfriend Maria Francisca Perello dressed for an event

Nadal has been dating Maria Francisca Perello who is an insurance company employee from Palma, Majorca. Xisca has also got a degree in Business Administration.

Spanish tennis star Rafael Nadal and his longtime girlfriend Xisca

In October, 2012 Maria Francisca Perello "Xisca" was appointed the Director for Social Integration of Rafael Nadal Foundation, in what appeared to be a big step into the future state of their relationship.

Here are some more pictures of Nadal and Xisca.... some which I liked....

All pictures are taken from the public domain and I don't own the rights to any of them.

Maria Francisca Perello and boyfriend Rafael Nadal

Rafael Nadal's cute girlfriend Maria Francisca Perello or Xisca as she is fondly called giving a beautiful smile

Rafael Nadal and Xisca keeping their relationship low profile

Nadal's girlfriend Xisca cheering him in the tennis court

Rafael Nadal's beautiful girlfriend Maria 'Xisca' Perello

Rafael Nadal's mother Ana Maria Parera (L), his sister Maria Isabel Nadal (R) and his girlfriend, Maria Francisca Perello, sit on Centre Court for Nadal's men's singles final match against Novak Djokovic of Serbia at the Wimbledon tennis championships in London July 3, 2011.

Pic courtesy: Reuters

Spanish tennis start Nadal's girlfriend Xisca attending an event

Xisca, Nadal's girlfriend, posing for the camera

Nadal and girlfriend Xisca holidaying

Nadal and his cute girlfriend Xisca's picture taken during their initial years of relationship

Nadal's longtime girlfriend Maria Francisca Perello "Xisca" was appointed the Director for Social Integration of Rafael Nadal Foundation

Hope we see Nadal and Xisca tying the knot soon enough... this is one couple I like to see go a long way...

Victoria Azarenka and Redfoo - Party animals..

noreply@blogger.com (sportsfreak) — Sun, 17 Feb 2013 09:20:00 +0000

Vika and Redfoo... yes... the hottest couple in the tennis circuit now are undoubtedly the Australian Open champion Victoria Azarenka and US rapper Redfoo of LMFAO.

Victoria Azarenka with rapper boyfriend Redfoo partying @redfoo

Stefan Kendal Gordy popularly known as Redfoo in the music circle is one half of the LMFAO band with SkyBlu being the other half.

Redfoo was first seen with Azarenka during the 2012 US Open when he sat in with her during a press conference. They also partied hard after Azarenka's loss.

Redfoo and girlfriend Victoria Azarenka shopping and partying after US Open 2012 @redfoo

During a recent radio appearance, Redfoo who is known for his wild hair and wilder music, dropped this hint that the two were dating via Sports Illustrated magazine.

“I’m in love,” Redfoo said. “I don’t care who knows it. With a special one. I got a special one. A No. 1, if you will.”
Who else is it other than the person (Vika Azarenka) with whom Redfoo is seen partying hard of late.

Vika Azarenka and boyfriend Redfoo partying hard

Redfoo is 37 years old and the lead singer/DJ/dancer/rapper of LMFAO, an American electro hop duo founded in 2006. Redfoo and SkyBlu (Skyler Gordy) are uncle and nephew. Their music style is “party rock”. LMFAO is an acronyms for “Laughing My F***** Ass Off”.
Check out more of Vika Azarenka and boyfriend Redfoo's partying pictures.

Azarenka and Redfoo of LMFAO seen posing during a party

US rapper Redfoo of LMFAO and girlfriend Victoria Azarenka partying

Victoria Azarenka and boyfriend Redfoo enjoying jet skiing

Victoria Azarenka and Redfoo are dating and seem to party hard and going strong

Pic courtesy: PORNCHAI KITTIWONGSAKUL/AFP/Getty Images

Boyfriend Redfoo seen at the Australian Open 2013 in Melbourne where Azarenka defended her title.

Pic courtesy: Cameron Spencer/Getty Images

Redfoo and Azarenka as a couple enjoying an NBA match

Redfoo of LMFAO cheers for Vika Azarenka during her Australian Open 2013 title defence

Pic courtesy: AP Photo/Andrew Brownbill

Thus Victoria Azarenka of Belarus and boyfriend Redfoo have earned themselves the title of the hottest couple in the tennis circuit.... with Redfoo being a star boyfriend with a penchant for shots and party rock.
Lets see how far these two new love birds go.. :)

Michelle Jenneke in Sports Illustrated magazine

noreply@blogger.com (sportsfreak) — Fri, 15 Feb 2013 07:42:00 +0000

Remember Michelle Jenneke, the Australian athlete? She became famous courtesy of a youtube video going viral.... The viral video had Michelle Jenneke doing her usual dancing warm-up routine before her hurdles race last year at the IAAF World Junior Championship.

Check out my earlier post on her - Michelle Jenneke who??

Michelle Jenneke dancing warm up routine

Now, Sports Illustrated has featured her in their February 2013 issue with three other sports women. The other athletes featured are Hawaiian surfer Alana Blanchard and Dutch hockey stars Ellen Hoog and Eva de Goede. Michelle Jenneke has certainly used her fame to good use by featuring in the Sports Illustrated photo shoot.

Michelle Jenneke doing her regular dance routine during the photo shoot of her Sports Illustrated magazine feature

Pic courtesy: Sports Illustrated

Check out some of her Sports Illustrated pictures... and more directly from the Sports Illustrated site here

These are just some of pics I like of the photo shoot and all copyrights go to the Sports Illustrated magazine.

Australian athlete Michelle Jenneke featuring in Sports Illustrated Magazine February 2013 issue

Pic courtesy: Sports Illustrated

“I was absolutely amazed when I found out Sports Illustrated wanted to shoot me,” Jenneke said, also adding, “I looked at the pictures and I think, wow, is that really me?”

Michelle Jenneke doing a bikini photo shoot for Sports Illustrated

Pic courtesy: Sports Illustrated

Check out her interview she did during her photo shoot....

Lets wait and watch to see if Michelle Jenneke is able to transform some of this new found fame and success on the track and field too :)

Agnieszka Radwańska - The Polish tennis sensation

noreply@blogger.com (sportsfreak) — Thu, 14 Feb 2013 06:05:00 +0000

Agnieszka Radwańska is world number 4 Women's tennis player from Poland. She caught the eye of people by her intelligent play constructing her points and using the court to her advantage. She has won 12 career singles title and many more to come. Her grandslam best is reaching finals of the Wimbledon 2012 losing to Serena Williams.

Agnieszka Radwanska - Polish number 1 and world number 4 women's tennis star

Agnieszka Radwanska during a photoshoot

Cute Agnieszka Radwanska smiles

Radwanska has a younger sister Urszula Radwańska who is also a tennis professional. Both the Radwanska sisters make a cute pair :) The younger one though not as competitive as the elder Radwanska.

Agnieszka and Urszula Radwanska sister posing for a photoshoot

The Radwanska sisters in bikini for a photoshoot

Urszula Radwańska and Agnieszka Radwańska - The Radwańska sisters enjoying bikini sunbathing in the beach in Cuba

Agnieszka Radwańska in the covers of Shape magazine

Radwanska modeling photoshoot

Agnieszka Radwanska in a sexy modeling photoshoot

Cute Agnieszka Radwanska giving an innocent shot

Definitely Agnieszka Radwanska has the talent.... but can she beat the power gamers Sharapova, Serena, Li Na and the number one player Victoria Azarenka?? only time will tell.. but will love to see her winning atleast a single grandslam.

Roger Federer's family - Mirka and twins Myla Rose and Charlene Riva

noreply@blogger.com (sportsfreak) — Wed, 13 Feb 2013 06:43:00 +0000

Arguably the greatest tennis player ever - Roger Federer of Switzerland has has an amazing support from his family.... mainly from his wife Mirka Federer who has been by Federer's side since they started seeing each other during the Sydney 2000 Olympics.

Roger Federer and Mirka Federer are blessed with two beautiful daughters - twins Myla Rose and Charlene Riva.

Roger Federer, wife Mirka Federer with twin daughters Myla Rose and Charlene Riva

Federer says that his twin daughters Myla Rose and Charlene Riva want to pick-up their dolls instead of a tennis racket for playing and he is happy with that too :)

Mirka and the twins are seen photographed here watching Federer during his matches on the court, and also off the court holidaying or shopping.

Mirka Federer with daughters Charlene Riva and Myla Rose watching Federer oncourt

Charlene Riva and Myla Rose with mother Mirka Federer watching their father Roger Federer during a tennis match

A more recent picture of Roger Federer's daughters Myla Rose and Charlene Riva with mother Mirka Federer

Pic courtesy: Elder Ordonez/INFphoto.com

Roger Federer, Mirka and twin daughters holidaying in the beach

Roger Federer, Mirka and daughters vacationing in Corsica

Another picture of the twins Charlene Riva and Myla Rose by the court side watching their father Federer play

Roger Federer and family shopping

A cute picture of the twins Myla Rose and Charlene Riva with mother Mirka Federer

These are some of my favourite pictures taken from the world wide web... All pictures credit goes to their respective owners..

Lets hope Federer's twin daugthers live upto their father's expectations.. its a tough one isn't it :)

WAGS: Fernando Torres, wife Olalla and kids

noreply@blogger.com (sportsfreak) — Mon, 11 Feb 2013 04:47:00 +0000

Fernando Torres, the famous Spanish soccer player and striker with good looks is also a good family man. He is happiest when he is with his family. Here is a collection of pictures of Fernando Torres with his family.

Fernando Torres, wife Olalla Domínguez, son Leo and daughter Nora posing with the Euro Cup 2012 Trophy after winning the Euro cup beating Italy

Torres was in a relationship with Olalla Domínguez Liste since 2001 which ended in their marriage on 27 May 2009. They had been an item and very much in public eye for almost eight years and are thought to have met in the Galician seaside town of Estorde, where Torres would go on family holidays each year to escape the Spanish capital.
The couple have two children, a daughter, Nora, born on 8 July 2009 and a son, Leo, born on 6 December 2010.

Fernando Torres and wife Olalla Dominguez Liste shopping

Chelsea forward Torres with wife Olalla

Fernando Torres and Olalla holidaying in Ibiza with kids

Torres, wife Olalla and kids Nora and Leo holidaying in the beach

Torres with pregnant wife Olalla

Torres and Olalla announce birth of their daughter Nora

Spanish Stiker Torres' wife Olalla kisses him after birth of their daughter Nora

Fernando Torres with his kid

Spanish football star Fernando Torres poses with his daughter Nora

Pics courtesy: Pics that I liked from the world wide web...

Maria Sharapova and ex Sasha Vujacic

noreply@blogger.com (sportsfreak) — Sat, 09 Feb 2013 23:56:00 +0000

It was a whirlwind romance between tennis star Russian Maria Sharapova and former LA Lakers star Sasha Vujacic which culminated in Sasha proposing Sharapova during their one year anniversary in the year 2010. But, after being engaged for over 2 years, Sharapova and Sasha Vujacic call it quits and broke up at the end of August 2012.

Maria Sharapova and ex-boyfriend and fiance former LA Lakers star Sasha Vujacic of Slovenia at a Tag Heuer promotion

Pic courtesy: Getty Images

'It was obviously a challenging decision, you know, from both of our ends. We have a tremendous amount of respect for each other. Still would love to call him a friend. We spent really great years together,' Sharapova said.

Maria Sharapova with then boyfriend and fiance Sasha Vujacic

Sharapova hand in hand with former boyfriend Vujacic, they broke up after a three year relationship in August 2012.

Pic courtesy: Bauer-Griffin

Sasha Vujacic and Maria Sharapova in a restaurant having a private moment

Sharapova and Vujacic shopping in Italy

Sharapova sharing a light moment with Slovenian basketball player Vujacic

Maria Sharapova and Sasha Vujacic - a romance which took its toll because of the distance and travel

Pic courtesy: Photo Agency Udine

Sharapova is currently busy with her tennis schedule and her rise after injury lay-off has been amazing. So, can't see her to be having time for any relationship in the near future. As of Sasha Vujacic, he is currently playing for Anadolu Efes in the Turkish Basketball League.

Djokovic completes Hattrick Australian Open Champion

noreply@blogger.com (sportsfreak) — Mon, 28 Jan 2013 06:41:00 +0000

Novak Djokovic completes a record hat-trick Australian Open Championship by beating Andy Murray in a tough four setter.

Novak Djokovic winner of Australian Open 2013 Championship

Pic courtesy: Ben Solomon and AustralianOpen.com

"Winning it three in a row, it's incredible," Djokovic said after his 6-7 (2), 7-6 (3), 6-3, 6-2 victory over his friend Murray. "It's very thrilling. I'm full of joy right now. It's going to give me a lot of confidence for the rest of the season, that's for sure."

Novak Djokovic reacts winning his third consecutive Australian Open title in Melbourne

Pic courtesy: Ben Solomon and AustralianOpen.com

Nine other men had won consecutive Australian titles in the Open era, but none three straight years. One of them was Andre Agassi, who presented Djokovic with the trophy.

Novak Djokovic's previous three Australian Open Titles and with the 2013 title, Djokovic also completes a first hat-trick of Australian Open championship

Pic courtesy: Novak Djokovic's facebook page

Serbian Djokovic also captured the Aussie Open title in 2008, which means four of his six career major titles have come Down Under.

Novak Djokovic proudly displays his Australian Open trophy in Melbourne

Pic courtesy: Ben Solomon and AustralianOpen.com

Serbian Djokovic with his Australian Open trophy at the locker room in Melbourne

Pic courtesy: Ben Solomon and AustralianOpen.com

This year seems to be promising for Djokovic but with Nadal coming back soon, its going to be a four-some (Nadal, Djokovic, Murray and the FedEx) race for the rest of the grandslams this year. Gonna be mouthwatering :D

Azarenka's Australian Open Champagne celebrations

noreply@blogger.com (sportsfreak) — Sun, 27 Jan 2013 15:32:00 +0000

Victoria Azarenka celebrated her Australian Open 2013 Women's title victory in a grand manner with her boyfriend singer Redfoo, part of musical duo LMFAO.

Video of Azarenka with Redfoo celebrating her victory... thanks to Australian Open's youtube channel for this video..

Here are some of her photoshoot pics and Champagne celebrations which was taken in Melbourne on Sunday the 27th January 2013.

Beautiful Victoria Azarenka with her Australian Open 2013 trophy in Melbourne

Pic courtesy: Ben Solomon and AustralianOpen.com

Victoria Azarenka's Champagne celebrations after retaining her Australian Open title

Pic courtesy: Ben Solomon and AustralianOpen.com

Vika Azarenka of Belarus at the photo shoot of Australian Open winners

Pic courtesy: Ben Solomon and AustralianOpen.com

Vika Azarenka - Australian Open 2013 Women's Champion

noreply@blogger.com (sportsfreak) — Sun, 27 Jan 2013 05:26:00 +0000

Reigning world number one, Victoria Azarenka of Belarus, retained her Australian Open title at the Rod Laver Arena in Melbourne. She came back from a set down to beat the Chinese favorite Li Na who fell down twice to injure her ankle disrupting her momentum.

Vika Azarenka beat Li Na in a two hours and 40 minutes affair with the scoreline of 4-6, 6-4, 6-3.

Victoria Azarenka of Belarus with the Australian Open women's trophy

Pic courtesy: Ben Solomon and AustralianOpen.com

Azarenka broke into tears after winning her consecutive Australian Open championship.

“Unfortunately, you have to go through some rough patches to achieve great things. That’s what makes it so special for me,” Azarenka said. “I went through that, and I’m still able to kiss that beautiful trophy.”

Victoria Azarenka of Belarus and Li Na of China with their trophies at the Australian Open 2012 Women's final event

Pic courtesy: Ben Solomon and AustralianOpen.com

Li Na of China first tumbled to the court after twisting her left ankle in the fifth game of the second set and had it taped.

On the first point after a 10-minute pause in the third set while fireworks boomed overhead from nearby Australia Day celebrations, Li fell over again and slammed the back of her head on the court. The 2011 French Open champion was treated and had another timeout before being allowed to resume the match.

Li Na falling and twisting her ankle during the Australian Open finals

Pic courtesy: Getty Images

The beautiful Vika Azarenka serving during the Australian Open finals against Chinese Li Na at the Rod Laver Arena in Melbourne

Azarenka crying after winning the Australian Open 2013 Women's Championship for the second consecutive year

Pic courtesy: Ben Solomon and AustralianOpen.com

A beautiful shot of Victoria Azarenka and her Australian Open 2013 Trophy

Pic courtesy: Ryan Pierse/Getty Images

Though Azarenka's victory was marred by a controversial medical timeout during her semifinals match against upcoming teenager Sloane Stephens, none could deny her hunger for victory today. Hoping for a non-controversial successful year for Vika :)

Andy Murray wins his first grand slam - US Open 2012 winner

noreply@blogger.com (sportsfreak) — Wed, 12 Sep 2012 03:12:00 +0000

Andy Murray was fifth time lucky... winning his first grand slam title playing in his fifth finals at a grand slam.

Britain's Andy Murray beat Serbian Novak Djokovic in a gruelling 5-setter to clinch his first grandslam at the US Open 2012 championships. Murray outlasted defending champion Djokovic 7-6 (10), 7-5, 2-6, 3-6, 6-2 after nearly five hours to become the first British man to win a Grand Slam title since Fred Perry captured the Wimbledon and the U.S. Championships in 1936. Wimbledon 2013 waiting??

Andy Murray with US Open 2012 trophy after beating Novak Djokovic to claim his first grand slam

Pic courtesy: Getty Images

Andy Murray reacts surprised after he won the US Open 2012 grand slam championship for the first time beating Djokovic

Pic courtesy: Rob Loud/USTA

Scottish player Murray kisses his first grand slam in the form of US Open 2012 at New York

Pic courtesy: Getty Images

Novak Djokovic hugging and congratulating Andy Murray after his victory in the 2012 US Open Men's Singles Final.

Pic courtesy: Rob Loud/USTA

Andy Murray's girlfriend Kim Sears capturing the moment Murray won his first grand slam

Pic courtesy: Rob Loud/USTA

Andy Murray of Great Britain and Novak Djokovic of Serbia - finalists of the US Open Men's championship

Pic courtesy: Getty Images

Murray becomes the first British player to win a grand slam since Fred Perry won in 1936

Pic courtesy: Rob Loud/USTA

With his grand slam winning credentials put to rest, Murray will be looking to add more to his collection.

2012 Australian Open Champion - Novak Djokovic
2012 French Open Champion    - Rafael Nadal
2012 Wimbledon Champion       - Roger Federer
2012 US Open Champion            - Andy Murray

Do we see the pattern here :) 2013 looks to be mouth watering with all the top four men's tennis players being in good form.... hope Nadal recovers fully from his injury and hope Federer still has the hunger in him to win more.. also hope Djokovic comes back to his usual form again.... hope Murray carries forward this victory march.... hoping lots ain't I :D

Serena Williams - US Open 2012 Women's Champion

noreply@blogger.com (sportsfreak) — Mon, 10 Sep 2012 23:06:00 +0000

Serena Williams of USA snatched victory away from Victoria Azarenka winning her fourth U.S. Open title with a three-set victory. Williams beat Azarenka in a closely fought finals and won 6-2, 2-6, 7-5 at Arthur Ashe Stadium in Flushing Meadows.

Serena Williams won her 15th Grand Slam singles title with the 2012 US Open championship.

Serena Williams with the US Open trophy after beating Azarenka for her 4th US Grand Slam title

Pic courtesy: Philip Hall/USTA

Serena Williams reacts after winning her 15th major grand slam titles in the form of US Open 2012 women's championship

Pic courtesy: Andrew Ong/USTA

Serena Williams of USA jumps out of joy after winning the US Open 2012 Women's championship beating Bealrus Victoria Azarenka

Pic courtesy: Andrew Ong/USTA

Serena Williams with US Open 2012 women's trophy

Pic courtesy: Philip Hall/USTA

2012 US Open women's singles champion Serena Williams poses with the championship trophy in Central Park on the morning after her victory over Victoria Azarenka

Pic courtesy: Getty Images

Victoria Azarenka reacts crying after her tough loss to US Open 2012 women's champion Serena Williams

Pic courtesy: Philip Hall/USTA

Serena Williams and Victoria Azarenka - 2012 US Open women's finalists

Pic courtesy: Philip Hall/USTA

Lets hope Azarenka and the rest of the ladies find some way to stop the rampant Serena Williams :) Its gonna be tough..