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PHOTO COLLECTION: Wimbledon Tennis Best of Quarterfinals

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PHOTO COLLECTION: Wimbledon Tennis Best of Quarterfinals
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News

PHOTO COLLECTION: Wimbledon Tennis Best of Quarterfinals

2025-07-10 04:15 Last Updated At:04:22

This is a photo collection curated by AP photo editors.

Iga Swiatek of Poland celebrates winning the women's singles quarter final match against Liudmilla Samsonova of Russia at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Wednesday, July 9, 2025.(AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Iga Swiatek of Poland celebrates winning the women's singles quarter final match against Liudmilla Samsonova of Russia at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Wednesday, July 9, 2025.(AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Ben Shelton of the U.S. plays a return to Jannik Sinner of Italy during the men's singles quarter final match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Wednesday, July 9, 2025.(AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Ben Shelton of the U.S. plays a return to Jannik Sinner of Italy during the men's singles quarter final match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Wednesday, July 9, 2025.(AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Ben Shelton of the U.S. reacts during the men's singles quarter final match against Jannik Sinner of Italy at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Wednesday, July 9, 2025.(AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Ben Shelton of the U.S. reacts during the men's singles quarter final match against Jannik Sinner of Italy at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Wednesday, July 9, 2025.(AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Liudmilla Samsonova of Russia serves the ball to Iga Swiatek of Poland during the women's singles quarter final match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Wednesday, July 9, 2025.(AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Liudmilla Samsonova of Russia serves the ball to Iga Swiatek of Poland during the women's singles quarter final match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Wednesday, July 9, 2025.(AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Ben Shelton of the U.S. changes his shirt during the men's singles quarter final match against Jannik Sinner of Italy at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Wednesday, July 9, 2025.(AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Ben Shelton of the U.S. changes his shirt during the men's singles quarter final match against Jannik Sinner of Italy at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Wednesday, July 9, 2025.(AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Liudmilla Samsonova of Russia reacts during the women's singles quarter final match against Iga Swiatek of Poland at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Wednesday, July 9, 2025.(AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Liudmilla Samsonova of Russia reacts during the women's singles quarter final match against Iga Swiatek of Poland at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Wednesday, July 9, 2025.(AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Jannik Sinner of Italy celebrates winning the men's singles quarter final match against Ben Shelton of the U.S. at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Wednesday, July 9, 2025.(AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Jannik Sinner of Italy celebrates winning the men's singles quarter final match against Ben Shelton of the U.S. at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Wednesday, July 9, 2025.(AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Ben Shelton of the U.S. reacts during the men's singles quarter final match against Jannik Sinner of Italy at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Wednesday, July 9, 2025.(AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Ben Shelton of the U.S. reacts during the men's singles quarter final match against Jannik Sinner of Italy at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Wednesday, July 9, 2025.(AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Iga Swiatek of Poland serves to Liudmilla Samsonova of Russia during the women's singles quarter final match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Wednesday, July 9, 2025.(AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Iga Swiatek of Poland serves to Liudmilla Samsonova of Russia during the women's singles quarter final match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Wednesday, July 9, 2025.(AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Iga Swiatek of Poland celebrates winning the women's singles quarter final match against Liudmilla Samsonova of Russia at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Wednesday, July 9, 2025.(AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Iga Swiatek of Poland celebrates winning the women's singles quarter final match against Liudmilla Samsonova of Russia at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Wednesday, July 9, 2025.(AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Britain's Cameron Norrie waves as he leaves the court after losing to Spain's Carlos Alcaraz during a quarterfinal men's singles match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Joanna Chan)

Britain's Cameron Norrie waves as he leaves the court after losing to Spain's Carlos Alcaraz during a quarterfinal men's singles match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Joanna Chan)

Laura Siegemund of Germany returns to Aryana Sabalenka of Belarus during a quarterfinal women's singles match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Laura Siegemund of Germany returns to Aryana Sabalenka of Belarus during a quarterfinal women's singles match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Amanda Anisimova of the U.S. celebrates winning the women's singles quarter finals match against Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova of Russia at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025.(AP Photo/Kin Cheung)

Amanda Anisimova of the U.S. celebrates winning the women's singles quarter finals match against Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova of Russia at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025.(AP Photo/Kin Cheung)

Spain's Carlos Alcaraz celebrates after beating Britain's Cameron Norrie during a quarterfinal men's singles match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Spain's Carlos Alcaraz celebrates after beating Britain's Cameron Norrie during a quarterfinal men's singles match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Spain's Carlos Alcaraz returns to Britain's Cameron Norrie during a quarterfinal men's singles match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Spain's Carlos Alcaraz returns to Britain's Cameron Norrie during a quarterfinal men's singles match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Britain's Cameron Norrie returns to Spain's Carlos Alcaraz during a quarterfinal men's singles match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Britain's Cameron Norrie returns to Spain's Carlos Alcaraz during a quarterfinal men's singles match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Spain's Carlos Alcaraz returns to Britain's Cameron Norrie during a quarterfinal men's singles match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Joanna Chan)

Spain's Carlos Alcaraz returns to Britain's Cameron Norrie during a quarterfinal men's singles match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Joanna Chan)

Spain's Carlos Alcaraz returns to Britain's Cameron Norrie during a quarterfinal men's singles match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Spain's Carlos Alcaraz returns to Britain's Cameron Norrie during a quarterfinal men's singles match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Taylor Fritz of the U.S. plays a return to Karen Khachanov of Russia during the men's singles quarter final match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025.(AP Photo/Kin Cheung)

Taylor Fritz of the U.S. plays a return to Karen Khachanov of Russia during the men's singles quarter final match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025.(AP Photo/Kin Cheung)

Karen Khachanov of Russia watches the ball during the men's singles quarter final match against Taylor Fritz of the U.S. at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025.(AP Photo/Kin Cheung)

Karen Khachanov of Russia watches the ball during the men's singles quarter final match against Taylor Fritz of the U.S. at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025.(AP Photo/Kin Cheung)

Laura Siegemund of Germany returns to Aryna Sabalenka of Belarus during a quarterfinal women's singles match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Laura Siegemund of Germany returns to Aryna Sabalenka of Belarus during a quarterfinal women's singles match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Aryana Sabalenka of Belarus tries to keep cool using an ice pack during a change of ends break as she plays Laura Siegemund of Germany during a quarterfinal women's singles match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Aryana Sabalenka of Belarus tries to keep cool using an ice pack during a change of ends break as she plays Laura Siegemund of Germany during a quarterfinal women's singles match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Aryana Sabalenka of Belarus reacts after losing a point against Laura Siegemund of Germany during a quarterfinal women's singles match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Aryana Sabalenka of Belarus reacts after losing a point against Laura Siegemund of Germany during a quarterfinal women's singles match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Aryana Sabalenka of Belarus serves to Laura Siegemund of Germany during a quarterfinal women's singles match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Aryana Sabalenka of Belarus serves to Laura Siegemund of Germany during a quarterfinal women's singles match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Laura Siegemund of Germany sits in her chair as Aryna Sabalenka of Belarus goes for a break during a quarterfinal women's singles match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Laura Siegemund of Germany sits in her chair as Aryna Sabalenka of Belarus goes for a break during a quarterfinal women's singles match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Taylor Fritz of the U.S. gets medical assistance during the men's singles quarter final match against Karen Khachanov of Russia at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025.(AP Photo/Kin Cheung)

Taylor Fritz of the U.S. gets medical assistance during the men's singles quarter final match against Karen Khachanov of Russia at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025.(AP Photo/Kin Cheung)

Aryana Sabalenka of Belarus tries to keep cool using an ice pack during a change of ends break as she plays Laura Siegemund of Germany during a quarterfinal women's singles match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Aryana Sabalenka of Belarus tries to keep cool using an ice pack during a change of ends break as she plays Laura Siegemund of Germany during a quarterfinal women's singles match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Taylor Fritz of the U.S. celebrates winning the men's singles quarter final match against Karen Khachanov of Russia at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025.(AP Photo/Kin Cheung)

Taylor Fritz of the U.S. celebrates winning the men's singles quarter final match against Karen Khachanov of Russia at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025.(AP Photo/Kin Cheung)

Karen Khachanov of Russia waves to the crowd after losing the men's singles quarter final match against Taylor Fritz of the U.S. at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025.(AP Photo/Kin Cheung)

Karen Khachanov of Russia waves to the crowd after losing the men's singles quarter final match against Taylor Fritz of the U.S. at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025.(AP Photo/Kin Cheung)

Aryana Sabalenka of Belarus reacts after losing a point against Laura Siegemund of Germany during a quarterfinal women's singles match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Aryana Sabalenka of Belarus reacts after losing a point against Laura Siegemund of Germany during a quarterfinal women's singles match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Aryana Sabalenka of Belarus celebrates after beating Laura Siegemund of Germany to win a quarterfinal women's singles match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Aryana Sabalenka of Belarus celebrates after beating Laura Siegemund of Germany to win a quarterfinal women's singles match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Aryana Sabalenka of Belarus celebrates after beating Laura Siegemund of Germany to win a quarterfinal women's singles match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Aryana Sabalenka of Belarus celebrates after beating Laura Siegemund of Germany to win a quarterfinal women's singles match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Amanda Anisimova of the U.S. serves to Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova of Russia during the women's singles quarter finals match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025.(AP Photo/Kin Cheung)

Amanda Anisimova of the U.S. serves to Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova of Russia during the women's singles quarter finals match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025.(AP Photo/Kin Cheung)

Spectators walk outside of Centre Court on day nine at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Joanna Chan)

Spectators walk outside of Centre Court on day nine at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Joanna Chan)

Amanda Anisimova of the U.S. plays a return to Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova of Russia during the women's singles quarter finals match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025.(AP Photo/Kin Cheung)

Amanda Anisimova of the U.S. plays a return to Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova of Russia during the women's singles quarter finals match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025.(AP Photo/Kin Cheung)

Amanda Anisimova of the U.S. rests under an umbrella during the women's singles quarter finals match against Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova of Russia at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025.(AP Photo/Kin Cheung)

Amanda Anisimova of the U.S. rests under an umbrella during the women's singles quarter finals match against Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova of Russia at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025.(AP Photo/Kin Cheung)

Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova of Russia returns the ball to Amanda Anisimova of the U.S. during the women's singles quarter finals match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025.(AP Photo/Kin Cheung)

Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova of Russia returns the ball to Amanda Anisimova of the U.S. during the women's singles quarter finals match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025.(AP Photo/Kin Cheung)

Aryana Sabalenka of Belarus celebrates after beating Laura Siegemund of Germany to win a quarterfinal women's singles match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Aryana Sabalenka of Belarus celebrates after beating Laura Siegemund of Germany to win a quarterfinal women's singles match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Aryana Sabalenka of Belarus returns to Laura Siegemund of Germany in a quarterfinal women's singles match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Aryana Sabalenka of Belarus returns to Laura Siegemund of Germany in a quarterfinal women's singles match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova of Russia reacts during the women's singles quarter finals match against Amanda Anisimova of the U.S. at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025.(AP Photo/Kin Cheung)

Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova of Russia reacts during the women's singles quarter finals match against Amanda Anisimova of the U.S. at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025.(AP Photo/Kin Cheung)

Britain's Cameron Norrie returns to Spain's Carlos Alcaraz during a quarterfinal men's singles match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Britain's Cameron Norrie returns to Spain's Carlos Alcaraz during a quarterfinal men's singles match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Amanda Anisimova of the U.S. reacts during the women's singles quarter finals match against Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova of Russia at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025.(AP Photo/Kin Cheung)

Amanda Anisimova of the U.S. reacts during the women's singles quarter finals match against Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova of Russia at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025.(AP Photo/Kin Cheung)

Serbia's Novak Djokovic plays soccer barefoot with his son Stefan on the practice courts on day nine at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Joanna Chan)

Serbia's Novak Djokovic plays soccer barefoot with his son Stefan on the practice courts on day nine at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Joanna Chan)

Spectators gather on 'The Hill' to watch on the screen Spain's Carlos Alcaraz play Britain's Cameron Norrie during a quarterfinal men's singles match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Joanna Chan)

Spectators gather on 'The Hill' to watch on the screen Spain's Carlos Alcaraz play Britain's Cameron Norrie during a quarterfinal men's singles match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Joanna Chan)

Laura Siegemund of Germany reacts as she plays Aryana Sabalenka of Belarus during a quarterfinal women's singles match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Laura Siegemund of Germany reacts as she plays Aryana Sabalenka of Belarus during a quarterfinal women's singles match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Aryana Sabalenka of Belarus celebrates after beating Laura Siegemund of Germany to win a quarterfinal women's singles match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Aryana Sabalenka of Belarus celebrates after beating Laura Siegemund of Germany to win a quarterfinal women's singles match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Spain's Carlos Alcaraz returns to Britain's Cameron Norrie during a quarterfinal men's singles match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Spain's Carlos Alcaraz returns to Britain's Cameron Norrie during a quarterfinal men's singles match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Amanda Anisimova of the U.S. celebrates winning the women's singles quarter finals match against Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova of Russia at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025.(AP Photo/Kin Cheung)

Amanda Anisimova of the U.S. celebrates winning the women's singles quarter finals match against Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova of Russia at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025.(AP Photo/Kin Cheung)

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Iga Swiatek of Poland celebrates winning the women's singles quarter final match against Liudmilla Samsonova of Russia at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Wednesday, July 9, 2025.(AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Iga Swiatek of Poland celebrates winning the women's singles quarter final match against Liudmilla Samsonova of Russia at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Wednesday, July 9, 2025.(AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Ben Shelton of the U.S. plays a return to Jannik Sinner of Italy during the men's singles quarter final match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Wednesday, July 9, 2025.(AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Ben Shelton of the U.S. plays a return to Jannik Sinner of Italy during the men's singles quarter final match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Wednesday, July 9, 2025.(AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Ben Shelton of the U.S. reacts during the men's singles quarter final match against Jannik Sinner of Italy at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Wednesday, July 9, 2025.(AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Ben Shelton of the U.S. reacts during the men's singles quarter final match against Jannik Sinner of Italy at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Wednesday, July 9, 2025.(AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Liudmilla Samsonova of Russia serves the ball to Iga Swiatek of Poland during the women's singles quarter final match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Wednesday, July 9, 2025.(AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Liudmilla Samsonova of Russia serves the ball to Iga Swiatek of Poland during the women's singles quarter final match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Wednesday, July 9, 2025.(AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Ben Shelton of the U.S. changes his shirt during the men's singles quarter final match against Jannik Sinner of Italy at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Wednesday, July 9, 2025.(AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Ben Shelton of the U.S. changes his shirt during the men's singles quarter final match against Jannik Sinner of Italy at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Wednesday, July 9, 2025.(AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Liudmilla Samsonova of Russia reacts during the women's singles quarter final match against Iga Swiatek of Poland at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Wednesday, July 9, 2025.(AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Liudmilla Samsonova of Russia reacts during the women's singles quarter final match against Iga Swiatek of Poland at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Wednesday, July 9, 2025.(AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Jannik Sinner of Italy celebrates winning the men's singles quarter final match against Ben Shelton of the U.S. at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Wednesday, July 9, 2025.(AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Jannik Sinner of Italy celebrates winning the men's singles quarter final match against Ben Shelton of the U.S. at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Wednesday, July 9, 2025.(AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Ben Shelton of the U.S. reacts during the men's singles quarter final match against Jannik Sinner of Italy at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Wednesday, July 9, 2025.(AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Ben Shelton of the U.S. reacts during the men's singles quarter final match against Jannik Sinner of Italy at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Wednesday, July 9, 2025.(AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Iga Swiatek of Poland serves to Liudmilla Samsonova of Russia during the women's singles quarter final match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Wednesday, July 9, 2025.(AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Iga Swiatek of Poland serves to Liudmilla Samsonova of Russia during the women's singles quarter final match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Wednesday, July 9, 2025.(AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Iga Swiatek of Poland celebrates winning the women's singles quarter final match against Liudmilla Samsonova of Russia at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Wednesday, July 9, 2025.(AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Iga Swiatek of Poland celebrates winning the women's singles quarter final match against Liudmilla Samsonova of Russia at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Wednesday, July 9, 2025.(AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Britain's Cameron Norrie waves as he leaves the court after losing to Spain's Carlos Alcaraz during a quarterfinal men's singles match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Joanna Chan)

Britain's Cameron Norrie waves as he leaves the court after losing to Spain's Carlos Alcaraz during a quarterfinal men's singles match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Joanna Chan)

Laura Siegemund of Germany returns to Aryana Sabalenka of Belarus during a quarterfinal women's singles match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Laura Siegemund of Germany returns to Aryana Sabalenka of Belarus during a quarterfinal women's singles match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Amanda Anisimova of the U.S. celebrates winning the women's singles quarter finals match against Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova of Russia at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025.(AP Photo/Kin Cheung)

Amanda Anisimova of the U.S. celebrates winning the women's singles quarter finals match against Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova of Russia at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025.(AP Photo/Kin Cheung)

Spain's Carlos Alcaraz celebrates after beating Britain's Cameron Norrie during a quarterfinal men's singles match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Spain's Carlos Alcaraz celebrates after beating Britain's Cameron Norrie during a quarterfinal men's singles match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Spain's Carlos Alcaraz returns to Britain's Cameron Norrie during a quarterfinal men's singles match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Spain's Carlos Alcaraz returns to Britain's Cameron Norrie during a quarterfinal men's singles match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Britain's Cameron Norrie returns to Spain's Carlos Alcaraz during a quarterfinal men's singles match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Britain's Cameron Norrie returns to Spain's Carlos Alcaraz during a quarterfinal men's singles match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Spain's Carlos Alcaraz returns to Britain's Cameron Norrie during a quarterfinal men's singles match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Joanna Chan)

Spain's Carlos Alcaraz returns to Britain's Cameron Norrie during a quarterfinal men's singles match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Joanna Chan)

Spain's Carlos Alcaraz returns to Britain's Cameron Norrie during a quarterfinal men's singles match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Spain's Carlos Alcaraz returns to Britain's Cameron Norrie during a quarterfinal men's singles match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Taylor Fritz of the U.S. plays a return to Karen Khachanov of Russia during the men's singles quarter final match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025.(AP Photo/Kin Cheung)

Taylor Fritz of the U.S. plays a return to Karen Khachanov of Russia during the men's singles quarter final match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025.(AP Photo/Kin Cheung)

Karen Khachanov of Russia watches the ball during the men's singles quarter final match against Taylor Fritz of the U.S. at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025.(AP Photo/Kin Cheung)

Karen Khachanov of Russia watches the ball during the men's singles quarter final match against Taylor Fritz of the U.S. at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025.(AP Photo/Kin Cheung)

Laura Siegemund of Germany returns to Aryna Sabalenka of Belarus during a quarterfinal women's singles match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Laura Siegemund of Germany returns to Aryna Sabalenka of Belarus during a quarterfinal women's singles match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Aryana Sabalenka of Belarus tries to keep cool using an ice pack during a change of ends break as she plays Laura Siegemund of Germany during a quarterfinal women's singles match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Aryana Sabalenka of Belarus tries to keep cool using an ice pack during a change of ends break as she plays Laura Siegemund of Germany during a quarterfinal women's singles match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Aryana Sabalenka of Belarus reacts after losing a point against Laura Siegemund of Germany during a quarterfinal women's singles match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Aryana Sabalenka of Belarus reacts after losing a point against Laura Siegemund of Germany during a quarterfinal women's singles match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Aryana Sabalenka of Belarus serves to Laura Siegemund of Germany during a quarterfinal women's singles match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Aryana Sabalenka of Belarus serves to Laura Siegemund of Germany during a quarterfinal women's singles match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Laura Siegemund of Germany sits in her chair as Aryna Sabalenka of Belarus goes for a break during a quarterfinal women's singles match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Laura Siegemund of Germany sits in her chair as Aryna Sabalenka of Belarus goes for a break during a quarterfinal women's singles match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Taylor Fritz of the U.S. gets medical assistance during the men's singles quarter final match against Karen Khachanov of Russia at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025.(AP Photo/Kin Cheung)

Taylor Fritz of the U.S. gets medical assistance during the men's singles quarter final match against Karen Khachanov of Russia at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025.(AP Photo/Kin Cheung)

Aryana Sabalenka of Belarus tries to keep cool using an ice pack during a change of ends break as she plays Laura Siegemund of Germany during a quarterfinal women's singles match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Aryana Sabalenka of Belarus tries to keep cool using an ice pack during a change of ends break as she plays Laura Siegemund of Germany during a quarterfinal women's singles match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Taylor Fritz of the U.S. celebrates winning the men's singles quarter final match against Karen Khachanov of Russia at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025.(AP Photo/Kin Cheung)

Taylor Fritz of the U.S. celebrates winning the men's singles quarter final match against Karen Khachanov of Russia at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025.(AP Photo/Kin Cheung)

Karen Khachanov of Russia waves to the crowd after losing the men's singles quarter final match against Taylor Fritz of the U.S. at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025.(AP Photo/Kin Cheung)

Karen Khachanov of Russia waves to the crowd after losing the men's singles quarter final match against Taylor Fritz of the U.S. at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025.(AP Photo/Kin Cheung)

Aryana Sabalenka of Belarus reacts after losing a point against Laura Siegemund of Germany during a quarterfinal women's singles match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Aryana Sabalenka of Belarus reacts after losing a point against Laura Siegemund of Germany during a quarterfinal women's singles match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Aryana Sabalenka of Belarus celebrates after beating Laura Siegemund of Germany to win a quarterfinal women's singles match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Aryana Sabalenka of Belarus celebrates after beating Laura Siegemund of Germany to win a quarterfinal women's singles match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Aryana Sabalenka of Belarus celebrates after beating Laura Siegemund of Germany to win a quarterfinal women's singles match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Aryana Sabalenka of Belarus celebrates after beating Laura Siegemund of Germany to win a quarterfinal women's singles match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Amanda Anisimova of the U.S. serves to Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova of Russia during the women's singles quarter finals match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025.(AP Photo/Kin Cheung)

Amanda Anisimova of the U.S. serves to Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova of Russia during the women's singles quarter finals match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025.(AP Photo/Kin Cheung)

Spectators walk outside of Centre Court on day nine at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Joanna Chan)

Spectators walk outside of Centre Court on day nine at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Joanna Chan)

Amanda Anisimova of the U.S. plays a return to Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova of Russia during the women's singles quarter finals match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025.(AP Photo/Kin Cheung)

Amanda Anisimova of the U.S. plays a return to Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova of Russia during the women's singles quarter finals match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025.(AP Photo/Kin Cheung)

Amanda Anisimova of the U.S. rests under an umbrella during the women's singles quarter finals match against Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova of Russia at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025.(AP Photo/Kin Cheung)

Amanda Anisimova of the U.S. rests under an umbrella during the women's singles quarter finals match against Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova of Russia at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025.(AP Photo/Kin Cheung)

Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova of Russia returns the ball to Amanda Anisimova of the U.S. during the women's singles quarter finals match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025.(AP Photo/Kin Cheung)

Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova of Russia returns the ball to Amanda Anisimova of the U.S. during the women's singles quarter finals match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025.(AP Photo/Kin Cheung)

Aryana Sabalenka of Belarus celebrates after beating Laura Siegemund of Germany to win a quarterfinal women's singles match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Aryana Sabalenka of Belarus celebrates after beating Laura Siegemund of Germany to win a quarterfinal women's singles match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Aryana Sabalenka of Belarus returns to Laura Siegemund of Germany in a quarterfinal women's singles match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Aryana Sabalenka of Belarus returns to Laura Siegemund of Germany in a quarterfinal women's singles match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova of Russia reacts during the women's singles quarter finals match against Amanda Anisimova of the U.S. at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025.(AP Photo/Kin Cheung)

Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova of Russia reacts during the women's singles quarter finals match against Amanda Anisimova of the U.S. at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025.(AP Photo/Kin Cheung)

Britain's Cameron Norrie returns to Spain's Carlos Alcaraz during a quarterfinal men's singles match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Britain's Cameron Norrie returns to Spain's Carlos Alcaraz during a quarterfinal men's singles match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Amanda Anisimova of the U.S. reacts during the women's singles quarter finals match against Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova of Russia at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025.(AP Photo/Kin Cheung)

Amanda Anisimova of the U.S. reacts during the women's singles quarter finals match against Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova of Russia at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025.(AP Photo/Kin Cheung)

Serbia's Novak Djokovic plays soccer barefoot with his son Stefan on the practice courts on day nine at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Joanna Chan)

Serbia's Novak Djokovic plays soccer barefoot with his son Stefan on the practice courts on day nine at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Joanna Chan)

Spectators gather on 'The Hill' to watch on the screen Spain's Carlos Alcaraz play Britain's Cameron Norrie during a quarterfinal men's singles match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Joanna Chan)

Spectators gather on 'The Hill' to watch on the screen Spain's Carlos Alcaraz play Britain's Cameron Norrie during a quarterfinal men's singles match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Joanna Chan)

Laura Siegemund of Germany reacts as she plays Aryana Sabalenka of Belarus during a quarterfinal women's singles match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Laura Siegemund of Germany reacts as she plays Aryana Sabalenka of Belarus during a quarterfinal women's singles match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Aryana Sabalenka of Belarus celebrates after beating Laura Siegemund of Germany to win a quarterfinal women's singles match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Aryana Sabalenka of Belarus celebrates after beating Laura Siegemund of Germany to win a quarterfinal women's singles match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Spain's Carlos Alcaraz returns to Britain's Cameron Norrie during a quarterfinal men's singles match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Spain's Carlos Alcaraz returns to Britain's Cameron Norrie during a quarterfinal men's singles match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Amanda Anisimova of the U.S. celebrates winning the women's singles quarter finals match against Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova of Russia at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025.(AP Photo/Kin Cheung)

Amanda Anisimova of the U.S. celebrates winning the women's singles quarter finals match against Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova of Russia at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, July 8, 2025.(AP Photo/Kin Cheung)

A group of Buddhist monks and their rescue dog are striding single file down country roads and highways across the South, captivating Americans nationwide and inspiring droves of locals to greet them along their route.

In their flowing saffron and ocher robes, the men are walking for peace. It's a meditative tradition more common in South Asian countries, and it's resonating now in the U.S., seemingly as a welcome respite from the conflict, trauma and politics dividing the nation.

Their journey began Oct. 26, 2025, at a Vietnamese Buddhist temple in Texas, and is scheduled to end in mid-February in Washington, D.C., where they will ask Congress to recognize Buddha’s day of birth and enlightenment as a federal holiday. Beyond promoting peace, their highest priority is connecting with people along the way.

“My hope is, when this walk ends, the people we met will continue practicing mindfulness and find peace,” said the Venerable Bhikkhu Pannakara, the group’s soft-spoken leader who is making the trek barefoot. He teaches about mindfulness, forgiveness and healing at every stop.

Preferring to sleep each night in tents pitched outdoors, the monks have been surprised to see their message transcend ideologies, drawing huge crowds into churchyards, city halls and town squares across six states. Documenting their journey on social media, they — and their dog, Aloka — have racked up millions of followers online. On Saturday, thousands thronged in Columbia, South Carolina, where the monks chanted on the steps of the State House and received a proclamation from the city's mayor, Daniel Rickenmann.

At their stop Thursday in Saluda, South Carolina, Audrie Pearce joined the crowd lining Main Street. She had driven four hours from her village of Little River, and teared up as Pannakara handed her a flower.

“There’s something traumatic and heart-wrenching happening in our country every day,” said Pearce, who describes herself as spiritual, but not religious. “I looked into their eyes and I saw peace. They’re putting their bodies through such physical torture and yet they radiate peace.”

Hailing from Theravada Buddhist monasteries across the globe, the 19 monks began their 2,300 mile (3,700 kilometer) trek at the Huong Dao Vipassana Bhavana Center in Fort Worth.

Their journey has not been without peril. On Nov. 19, as the monks were walking along U.S. Highway 90 near Dayton, Texas, their escort vehicle was hit by a distracted truck driver, injuring two monks. One of them lost his leg, reducing the group to 18.

This is Pannakara's first trek in the U.S., but he's walked across several South Asian countries, including a 112-day journey across India in 2022 where he first encountered Aloka, an Indian Pariah dog whose name means divine light in Sanskrit.

Then a stray, the dog followed him and other monks from Kolkata in eastern India all the way to the Nepal border. At one point, he fell critically ill and Pannakara scooped him up in his arms and cared for him until he recovered. Now, Aloka inspires him to keep going when he feels like giving up.

“I named him light because I want him to find the light of wisdom,” Pannakara said.

The monk's feet are now heavily bandaged because he's stepped on rocks, nails and glass along the way. His practice of mindfulness keeps him joyful despite the pain from these injuries, he said.

Still, traversing the southeast United States has presented unique challenges, and pounding pavement day after day has been brutal.

“In India, we can do shortcuts through paddy fields and farms, but we can’t do that here because there are a lot of private properties,” Pannakara said. “But what’s made it beautiful is how people have welcomed and hosted us in spite of not knowing who we are and what we believe.”

In Opelika, Alabama, the Rev. Patrick Hitchman-Craig hosted the monks on Christmas night at his United Methodist congregation.

He expected to see a small crowd, but about 1,000 people showed up, creating the feel of a block party. The monks seemed like the Magi, he said, appearing on Christ’s birthday.

“Anyone who is working for peace in the world in a way that is public and sacrificial is standing close to the heart of Jesus, whether or not they share our tradition,” said Hitchman-Craig. “I was blown away by the number of people and the diversity of who showed up.”

After their night on the church lawn, the monks arrived the next afternoon at the Collins Farm in Cusseta, Alabama. Judy Collins Allen, whose father and brother run the farm, said about 200 people came to meet the monks — the biggest gathering she’s ever witnessed there.

“There was a calm, warmth and sense of community among people who had not met each other before and that was so special,” she said.

Long Si Dong, a spokesperson for the Fort Worth temple, said the monks, when they arrive in Washington, plan to seek recognition of Vesak, the day which marks the birth and enlightenment of the Buddha, as a national holiday.

“Doing so would acknowledge Vesak as a day of reflection, compassion and unity for all people regardless of faith,” he said.

But Pannakara emphasized that their main goal is to help people achieve peace in their lives. The trek is also a separate endeavor from a $200 million campaign to build towering monuments on the temple’s 14-acre property to house the Buddha’s teachings engraved in stone, according to Dong.

The monks practice and teach Vipassana meditation, an ancient Indian technique taught by the Buddha himself as core for attaining enlightenment. It focuses on the mind-body connection — observing breath and physical sensations to understand reality, impermanence and suffering. Some of the monks, including Pannakara, walk barefoot to feel the ground directly and be present in the moment.

Pannakara has told the gathered crowds that they don't aim to convert people to Buddhism.

Brooke Schedneck, professor of religion at Rhodes College in Memphis, Tennessee, said the tradition of a peace walk in Theravada Buddhism began in the 1990s when the Venerable Maha Ghosananda, a Cambodian monk, led marches across war-torn areas riddled with landmines to foster national healing after civil war and genocide in his country.

“These walks really inspire people and inspire faith,” Schedneck said. “The core intention is to have others watch and be inspired, not so much through words, but through how they are willing to make this sacrifice by walking and being visible.”

On Thursday, Becki Gable drove nearly 400 miles (about 640 kilometers) from Cullman, Alabama, to catch up with them in Saluda. Raised Methodist, Gable said she wanted some release from the pain of losing her daughter and parents.

“I just felt in my heart that this would help me have peace,” she said. “Maybe I could move a little bit forward in my life.”

Gable says she has already taken one of Pannakara’s teachings to heart. She’s promised herself that each morning, as soon as she awakes, she’d take a piece of paper and write five words on it, just as the monk prescribed.

“Today is my peaceful day.”

Freelance photojournalist Allison Joyce contributed to this report.

Associated Press religion coverage receives support through the AP’s collaboration with The Conversation US, with funding from Lilly Endowment Inc. The AP is solely responsible for this content.

Buddhist monks who are participating in the, "Walk For Peace," get lunch Thursday, Jan. 8, 2026, in Saluda, S.C. (AP Photo/Allison Joyce)

Buddhist monks who are participating in the, "Walk For Peace," get lunch Thursday, Jan. 8, 2026, in Saluda, S.C. (AP Photo/Allison Joyce)

Aloka rests with Buddhist monks who are participating in the, "Walk For Peace," Thursday, Jan. 8, 2026, in Saluda, S.C. (AP Photo/Allison Joyce)

Aloka rests with Buddhist monks who are participating in the, "Walk For Peace," Thursday, Jan. 8, 2026, in Saluda, S.C. (AP Photo/Allison Joyce)

A sign is seen greeting the Buddhist monks who are participating in the, "Walk For Peace," Thursday, Jan. 8, 2026, in Saluda, S.C. (AP Photo/Allison Joyce)

A sign is seen greeting the Buddhist monks who are participating in the, "Walk For Peace," Thursday, Jan. 8, 2026, in Saluda, S.C. (AP Photo/Allison Joyce)

Supporters pray with Buddhist monks who are participating in the, "Walk For Peace," Thursday, Jan. 8, 2026, in Saluda, S.C. (AP Photo/Allison Joyce)

Supporters pray with Buddhist monks who are participating in the, "Walk For Peace," Thursday, Jan. 8, 2026, in Saluda, S.C. (AP Photo/Allison Joyce)

Supporters watch Buddhist monks who are participating in the, "Walk For Peace," Thursday, Jan. 8, 2026, in Saluda, S.C. (AP Photo/Allison Joyce)

Supporters watch Buddhist monks who are participating in the, "Walk For Peace," Thursday, Jan. 8, 2026, in Saluda, S.C. (AP Photo/Allison Joyce)

A Buddhist monk ties a prayer bracelet around the wrist of Josey Lee, 2-months-old, during the, "Walk For Peace," Thursday, Jan. 8, 2026, in Saluda, S.C. (AP Photo/Allison Joyce)

A Buddhist monk ties a prayer bracelet around the wrist of Josey Lee, 2-months-old, during the, "Walk For Peace," Thursday, Jan. 8, 2026, in Saluda, S.C. (AP Photo/Allison Joyce)

Bhikkhu Pannakara, a spiritual leader, speaks to supporters during the, "Walk For Peace," Thursday, Jan. 8, 2026, in Saluda, S.C. (AP Photo/Allison Joyce)

Bhikkhu Pannakara, a spiritual leader, speaks to supporters during the, "Walk For Peace," Thursday, Jan. 8, 2026, in Saluda, S.C. (AP Photo/Allison Joyce)

Buddhist monks participate in the, "Walk For Peace," Thursday, Jan. 8, 2026, in Saluda, S.C. (AP Photo/Allison Joyce)

Buddhist monks participate in the, "Walk For Peace," Thursday, Jan. 8, 2026, in Saluda, S.C. (AP Photo/Allison Joyce)

Buddhist monks participate in the, "Walk For Peace," Thursday, Jan. 8, 2026, in Saluda, S.C. (AP Photo/Allison Joyce)

Buddhist monks participate in the, "Walk For Peace," Thursday, Jan. 8, 2026, in Saluda, S.C. (AP Photo/Allison Joyce)

Bhikkhu Pannakara leads other buddhist monks in the, "Walk For Peace," Thursday, Jan. 8, 2026, in Saluda, S.C. (AP Photo/Allison Joyce)

Bhikkhu Pannakara leads other buddhist monks in the, "Walk For Peace," Thursday, Jan. 8, 2026, in Saluda, S.C. (AP Photo/Allison Joyce)

Audrie Pearce greets Buddhist monks who are participating in the, "Walk For Peace," Thursday, Jan. 8, 2026, in Saluda, S.C. (AP Photo/Allison Joyce)

Audrie Pearce greets Buddhist monks who are participating in the, "Walk For Peace," Thursday, Jan. 8, 2026, in Saluda, S.C. (AP Photo/Allison Joyce)

Bhikkhu Pannakara, a spiritual leader, speaks to supporters during the, "Walk For Peace," Thursday, Jan. 8, 2026, in Saluda, S.C. (AP Photo/Allison Joyce)

Bhikkhu Pannakara, a spiritual leader, speaks to supporters during the, "Walk For Peace," Thursday, Jan. 8, 2026, in Saluda, S.C. (AP Photo/Allison Joyce)

Buddhist monks who are participating in the, "Walk For Peace," arrive in Saluda, Thursday, Jan. 8, 2026, in Saluda, S.C. (AP Photo/Allison Joyce)

Buddhist monks who are participating in the, "Walk For Peace," arrive in Saluda, Thursday, Jan. 8, 2026, in Saluda, S.C. (AP Photo/Allison Joyce)

Buddhist monks who are participating in the, "Walk For Peace," are seen with their dog, Aloka, Thursday, Jan. 8, 2026, in Saluda, S.C. (AP Photo/Allison Joyce)

Buddhist monks who are participating in the, "Walk For Peace," are seen with their dog, Aloka, Thursday, Jan. 8, 2026, in Saluda, S.C. (AP Photo/Allison Joyce)

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