Despite possessing the greater number of errors in the semi-final, Raonic pushed Federer to a fifth and final set, in which the young player came out ahead. It is the first time Federer has been beaten in 11 Wimbledon semi-finals.
Milos. Raonic. #Wimbledon finalist. #CdnTennis history has been made. pic.twitter.com/hMnnnlAbeU
— Tennis Canada (@TennisCanada) July 8, 2016
To defeat one of the Big Four in such dramatic fashion captured the enthusiasm and imagination of many around the world, but especially the Raonic fans back home. This is the first time a player representing Canada has advanced so far at Wimbledon. Naturally, many people were excited to celebrate on behalf of the Ontario native.
Tennis Canada was happy to broadcast the energy unleashed back home by the Milos win.
In Canada right now… #Wimbledon pic.twitter.com/LriD5nA90C
— Tennis Canada (@TennisCanada) July 8, 2016
Politicians flocked to the victory as a chance to applaud the young athlete for his exploits on behalf of Canada. At the local level, John Tory, seen shaking Raonic’s hand at the NBA All Star Game, showed his appreciation.
History maker! Toronto is pulling for you Milos in the #Wimbledon final. pic.twitter.com/WrcKfqBUkW
— John Tory (@JohnTory) July 8, 2016
Kathleen Wynne expressed the support of Raonic’s home province for the historic win.
Congratulations on the win @milosraonic! Exciting to see you become the first Canadian in the #Wimbledon men’s final. Ontario is proud.
— Kathleen Wynne (@Kathleen_Wynne) July 8, 2016
While, federally, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau put out a tweet in both French and English to celebrate the moment for his country.
Another game for Milos! First Canadian man to make a Grand Slam singles final – one more to go. Good luck on Sunday. #Wimbledon
— Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) July 8, 2016
The joy was palpable following the gruelling match between Raonic and Federer. Some commentators decided to keep things short and sweet.
WHOA July 8, 2016
While others opted for more elaborate comments.
Roger Federer may come to regret that game, and Milos Raonic may come to remember it with fondness
— Bruce Arthur (@bruce_arthur) July 8, 2016
Federer is still one of the most beloved figures in tennis history, and fans of the veteran athlete used the #Fedexit hash tag to express their sadness.
How do one spell CHOKE? @rogerfederer #fedexit #wimbledon
— ♥#BringTheLove♥ (@EllnequeS) July 8, 2016
First #Brexit #EUref
Now #Fedexit #Wimbledon2016Sad times
— Paul Riseley (@PaulRiseley) July 8, 2016
But the majority of the the sentiment among sports fans remained enthusiastic.
We will never get bored of this.#AnotherGameForMilos @milosraonic #Wimbledon July 8, 2016
With Andy Murray confirmed for the final, spectators will get a chance to watch Raonic take on another of the Big Four. If the young Canadian can go all the way at Wimbledon, it would be a slam dunk for the history books.
An awesome slam dunk from Milos Raonic! @milosraonic pic.twitter.com/xgZrjHLtMs
— Tennis Is Number 1 (@tennisnumber1) February 17, 2016
