Novak Djokovic is an undisputed symbol in his country, so many are convinced that after saying goodbye to tennis, the world’s number 1 can seriously start a political career. The 33-year-old Serb got off to a great start in 2021 when he won the Australian Open for the ninth time and dealt a heavy blow to Daniil Medvedev in a one-sided final.
Another triumph at Melbourne Park also resulted in him taking his 18th major, winning just two titles behind long-time rivals Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal. In the first few rounds on clay, the Belgrade veteran appeared to be a bit behind in terms of physical strength, a feeling that was reflected in the results.
Novak didn’t go beyond the second round in Monte Carlo, surprisingly eliminated by Dan Evans, while surrendering to a wild Aslan Karatsev in front of the friendly Belgrade crowd in the semifinals.
In an interview with ‘Alo’, Matej Sabanov, who made the headlines with his twin Ivan for winning the doubles tournament in Belgrade, explained how Djokovic supports his compatriots enormously.
Sabanov: “He made us feel at home”
“Novak Djokovic’s support cannot simply be described in words,” said Sabanov, who is 128th in doubles.
“For us Serbs he was always an idol, we saw how he grew to the top of the world. Each of his advice is extremely valuable and it is a great honor to learn from a legend like him, ”he added.
The global pandemic has made logistics an ordeal for lower-ranking players, including Sabanov. “Novak invited us to Belgrade last year to prepare for the new season.
It offered us the best conditions for training and we urgently needed it back then. In a way, we felt at home. ”Djokovic, who will be absent from the Mutua Madrid Open this week, is expected to be back on the pitch at the Internazionali in Rome.
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