What might presumably make the document 24-time Grand Slam winner Novak Djokovic really feel nerves at this stage of his illustrious profession?
Taking part in in entrance of considered one of his friends from one other sport, apparently.
When Djokovic beat Grigor Dimitrov 6-2, 6-3 on Friday within the semifinals of the Miami Open, Lionel Messi was within the crowd together with his household. Messi, the worldwide soccer star, performs for Inter Miami of the MLS.
Djokovic, 37, mentioned he was feeling some strain taking part in in entrance of Messi.
“Amazing to have him. Great honor and pleasure to play, I think probably for the first time, in front of him live,” Djokovic mentioned afterward. “I’m really grateful that he was here. I’ve admired him, of course, as most of the world (has) for most of his career. It’s amazing that he still keeps going. We’re actually the same age – born in (1987) – so it’s quite nice to have him around.”
Greatness respects greatness.
Djokovic later posted to social media photographs of the 2 G.O.A.T.s within the locker room after what gave the impression to be an autographed “jersey’ swap.
Djokovic wound up with an Inter Miami jersey and Messi with a Lacoste polo shirt.
Djokovic can be searching for his 100th profession event title Sunday when he faces 19-year-old upstart Jakub Menisk. It will be his seventh Miami Open crown.
“His impact on the world of sports in the last 20 years has been immense,” Djokovic mentioned. “To have him watch me live brings me great joy and excitement and also a little pressure. It’s definitely different when he brings his family. I was touched by that.”
