Novak Djokovic still doesn’t get the respect he deserves according to rival
Recently, Aussie firebrand Nick Kyrgios made a joke about Novak Djokovic serving as evidence of extraterrestrial life and added that the Serbian doesn’t get the respect he deserves.
Due to a series of ailments, Kyrgios was compelled to miss most of the 2023 season’s play, playing just one game on tour this term. First of all, he had to withdraw from the Australian Open in January due to knee problems.
A string of setbacks and personal problems away from the court didn’t help the situation and some have even questioned whether he will return to tennis at all.
The Australian returned to competition in June at the Stuttgart Open, midway through the year. In the first round, he met Yibing Wu and lost in straight setw. He was a candidate to play in the Wimbledon Championships, but he disclosed that a new wrist ailment had developed and he would miss the tournament considered to be his best shot at Grand Slam glory. Later on, he also removed his name from the US Open draw to no surprise.
Conversely, Djokovic expanded his collection of trophies by seven this year. In January, he took home the Australian Open and Adelaide International 1. Then, for the third time in his career, he raised the trophy at the French Open.
In addition, the Serbian defeated Daniil Medvedev in the US Open championship match and won the Cincinnati Masters title with a victory over Carlos Alcaraz in the final match. His seventh Paris Masters title and Year-End Championship victory rounded off another incredible campaign.
For the eighth time, the 36-year-old also achieved the World No. 1 ranking at year’s end.
Recently, Kyrgios hosted an Instagram Q&A session where he answered queries from his followers.
He responded to one question asking if aliens exist simply by posting an image of Djokovic.
According to recent comments made by Nick Kyrgios, the tennis community undervalues Novak Djokovic’s accomplishments.
On the Hotboxin’ with Mike Tyson podcast episode, Kyrgios made the claim asserting that his quality is now beyond question.
“I think he [Djokovic] is the best ever. Like [24] Grand Slams and I think he’s got a couple more in him as well, it’s crazy. I don’t think he gets the credit he deserves enough. He’s almost been on tour for like 20 years as well, like the longevity,” he told legendary boxer Mike Tyson when asked about his thoughts on the GOAT debate.
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