The Padel prince by laroque

The Padel prince

At Christmas my grandson Cristoffer, my daughter (his mother) and the rest of my extended Norwegian family were staying at the Hotel Britannia, the classiest hotel in Trondheim, Norway's, third largest city, paying 250€ per night for the privilege. Myself, the poor relation, was round the corner and up the street at the Comfort Inn, 230€ for three nights.

Of course, being the best hotel, the Britannia attracts the quality guests. Whilst they were booking in, who should walk by but Casper Ruud, currently no.12 ranked tennis player, at one time no.2. And since Norway is a small country, quite the hero amongst sports-mad Norwegians like Cristoffer.

Being occupied with checking in, Cristoffer could not get to meet him. However, my daughter suggested that the best time to approach him for an autograph would be at breakfast. So, Cristoffer was up at 7am, and waited patiently in the breakfast restaurant. When my daughter arrived at 9h50, ten minutes before the breakfast bar closed (expert timing, hereditary I think, I'm so proud of her !), no sign of Casper. Enquiring at reception, they found that Casper had taken breakfast in his room and had already left.

Uncle Alf to the rescue! He was there that night, a former head of Sports at the Norwegian equivalent of the BBC. He has contacts, including the publicity person for Casper. So, a few weeks later, Cristoffer received a hand-written note from Casper, and lots of merch, including that headband.

Happy boy. But he still lost (albeit he was playing alone against me and his Mum).

Such a sweet story and a great action shot!
April 6th, 2026  
Nice candid. Wonderful back story
April 7th, 2026  
Great action capture. Glad he got his autograph in the end!
April 7th, 2026  
Great capture of the action and great story
April 7th, 2026  
such a smily fab narrative... soo brilliant. you have a way with words.
very special result for your grandson.
April 7th, 2026  
What a great story! Well done your grandson!
April 7th, 2026  
How nice for your grandson, the uncle and Casper.
April 9th, 2026  
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