WATCH: MS Dhoni’s surprise appearance at US Open 2025: Cheers Djokovic’s quarterfinal victory over Fritz

MS Dhoni attends the US Open 2025 quarterfinal featuring Novak Djokovic vs Taylor Fritz, delighting fans with a rare crossover moment of cricket and tennis.

MS Dhoni/ pic credit: @bcci

The US Open 2025 quarterfinal between Novak Djokovic and Taylor Fritz delivered more than just high-quality tennis, it gave cricket and tennis fans a surprise crossover when MS Dhoni was spotted courtside. The former India captain, widely celebrated as one of cricket’s greatest leaders, drew immediate attention as cameras captured him watching the match with friends, creating buzz on social media and among spectators at Arthur Ashe Stadium.

The match itself was an intense affair. Djokovic, chasing yet another major title, was tested by Fritz but eventually sealed the win in four sets, 6-3, 7-5, 3-6, 6-4, to advance to the semifinals. The Serbian’s consistency, especially under pressure in the second and fourth sets, reaffirmed why he continues to dominate tennis well into his late 30s. Dhoni, known for his calm demeanor on the cricket field, appeared to relish the tense rallies and cheered on the champion with evident enthusiasm.

Dhoni’s presence at the US Open wasn’t entirely unprecedented. The Chennai Super Kings skipper has often been seen at global sporting events post-retirement, reflecting his love for different disciplines beyond cricket. Notably, he also attended the 2023 US Open quarterfinal clash between Carlos Alcaraz and Alexander Zverev, showcasing a pattern of Dhoni embracing international tennis at its biggest stage.

This year, Dhoni attended the match alongside close friends Hitesh Sanghvi and Rajiv Sharma, both of whom shared clips and photos online. The posts quickly went viral, with fans celebrating the sight of their cricketing idol enjoying a different sport. It was yet another reminder of Dhoni’s enduring popularity, his aura extends far beyond the cricket pitch, resonating with audiences across countries and sporting cultures.

For Djokovic, the victory not only secured a place in the semifinals but also set up a blockbuster clash against Carlos Alcaraz, a rematch of their recent high-stakes encounters. With Dhoni and other celebrities in attendance, the tournament underscored its global pull, attracting icons from diverse sporting worlds.

For Indian fans, seeing Dhoni courtside at a Grand Slam carried symbolic weight. His calm presence echoed the same qualities he displayed as India’s captain, composure under pressure, appreciation for skill, and respect for champions. It also highlighted how the love of sport transcends boundaries, uniting cricket and tennis under the bright New York lights.

Share