UNICEF Ambassador Ana Ivanovic promotes Olympic values in school violence prevention

UNICEF National Ambassador for Serbia Ana Ivanovic met up with pupils from Belgrade primary and secondary schools for the “School without Violence” programme yesterday.

During the event, Ivanovic talked to the children about the importance of nurturing Olympic values and spirit in sport and in life alike, respect for others and friendship.

“Sport and the values that characterise it are important for children and young people in developing self-esteem, commitment to teamwork, problem-solving, respect each other and nurturing friendships. Adopting these fundamental values can also help decrease violence and bullying in schools and create a better and more enabling environment for children and youth,” Ivanovic said.

(Images via Mondo)

The WAGs are here but where is the fiancé?

Tennis WAGs Xisca Perello and Kim Sears were spotted at the French Open quarterfinal matches yesterday.

Xisca at Rafael Nadal's match

Kim Sears watching Andy Murray's match

However I've been questioning the presence of Maria Sharapova's fiancé Sasha Vujacic who is missing from the Roland Garros this year.

There were talks about them getting married in November. The "rumour" was started by the Turkish media who mentioned that the nuptial will take place at Istanbul, where Vujacic is currently based.

Sharapova and Vujacic in Paris last year

Perhaps he has a busy schedule with his club, Anadolu Efes. However to miss the semifinal or even the final match where Sharapova could be playing would be devastating.

No doubt that Sharapova is at the top of her game right now and winning the French Open (and becoming the new world no.1) is highly possible. So, getting married at the peak of her career?   I have doubt until the marriage really take place.

(Images via Yahoo! Sports)

ITF honours Novak Djokovic, Petra Kvitova, Arantxa Sanchez Vicario

The World Champions Dinner was held last night to celebrate the achievements of the 2011 ITF World Champions.

Among the recipients were Novak Djokovic (who collected his award straight after his quarterfinal match against Jo-Wilfried Tsonga), Petra Kvitova and Bob and Mike Bryan.

Petra Kvitova

The Bryan brothers and little Micaela

Wheelchair champion Esther Vergeer accepted her trophy for a record 12th year.

Spanish tennis star Arantxa Sanchez Vicario received ITF’s highest accolade, the Philippe Chatrier Award.

(Images via French Open Facebook fan page)

Rafael Nadal visits Babolat's staff and fans at Roland Garros

Rafael Nadal used his off day yesterday to meet Babolat's staff and fans at the sponsor's space at Roland Garros.

Also present at the event was Carlos Moya.

Today, he will play against fellow Spaniard Nicolas Almagro to determine a place in the semifinals.

(Images via Babolat's Facebook fan page)