Hamilton thanked for inspiring British tennis star

Lewis Hamilton has been hailed "a role model" and "a really cool guy" for playing a key role in helping British tennis star Emma Raducanu remain humble and grounded.

Raducanu made history and headlines around the world in September when she won the US Open, becoming Britain's first female Grand Slam champion for 44 years.

The 19-year-old has revealed to being sent an inspirational message from seven-time F1 champion Hamilton in the wake of her success that has stayed with her.

"[He] said 'Be patient, you've just got to ride the wave. It's all good. Don't worry'," said Raducanu, who is a renowned F1 fan, and who competed in karting and motocross when she was younger.

Speaking to British media following her first match on home soil on Sunday since her remarkable Grand Slam triumph, she added: "Good reassurance.

"He has been such a good role model for me in terms of helping me out through the next stages."

Raducanu may yet go head-to-head with Hamilton for the BBC Sports Personality of the Year award in December should he win a record-breaking eighth F1 title.

Dismissing such a prospect, she said: "No, definitely not. I am rooting for Lewis in the race.

"I just don't even think about it. For me, it's something that's so far out of the realms of possibility."

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