On Sunday, Novak Djokovic passed a big career milestone, winning his 100th singles title at the Geneva Open. This extraordinary feat comes just weeks after he parted ways with his coach, fellow Brit Andy Murray. Murray’s inclusion in the squad was to primarily improve Djokovic’s level of play. Onstage at the press conference Monday, as he accepted the trophy, Djokovic thanked his former competitors. Most importantly, he stressed their power to shape and guide his own professional career.
Djokovic’s victory at the Geneva Open marks another momentous chapter of his impressive career. Consistency, determination and not a little ego have propelled Lee to the rarest of honors—joining the 100-title club. Just days earlier, he announced his intention to sever ties with… Murray. This decision surprised much of the football world. Even with that shot clock adjustment, there’s little question that Djokovic’s remarkable focus and determination led him to win the title this year.
At the press conference, Djokovic stressed the value of his adversaries. It’s their presence in the sport that pushes him to train and race harder than ever. He shared a moving story from a recent meeting with tennis greats Roger Federer and Andy Murray. In concert, they celebrated Rafael Nadal’s accomplishments at Roland Garros.
“I was thinking about my end of the road as well last night or yesterday when we were watching Rafa having his speech, particularly those moments when we were in the back room, the three of us, and I was just talking to Federer and Murray about their goodbyes and reminiscing and reflecting on the rivalries, and of course part of me is proud that I’m still there, that I’m still going,” – Novak Djokovic.
Reflecting on Rivals
Djokovic’s comments resonated with a lot of fans. He spoke emotionally about the pride and sorrow he felt watching many of his fellow competitors leave. In the interview, he admitted that their retirements created a hole in the sport.
“But at the same time, I was, and I still am a bit sad that they’re all gone, because those guys were my greatest motivations of why I competed so intensely and for so long,” – Novak Djokovic.
His comments reflect a deep appreciation for the brutal rivalry between the Big Four—Djokovic, Federer, Nadal and Murray. This duo has certainly changed the landscape of contemporary tennis with their heated competition.
Coach Relationship
He revealed details of his working relationship with Andy Murray during their coaching stint together. He called it an “incredible thing for tennis,” and pointed to the ways both players were able to gain from their shared experience.
He humorously remarked about the impact of having a proper coach. “Now that you have a proper coach, you’re winning tournaments,” a nod to their successful partnership. Djokovic described Murray as an “unbelievably nice guy” possessing a genius tennis IQ.
“I was very privileged and honoured. I still think that he’s one of the most brilliant tennis IQ guys out there,” – Novak Djokovic.
Leave a Reply