Novak Djokovic admitted he wished long-time rival Roger Federer could still be on the court, rather than in the stands.
Despite suffering a straight-set loss to world No.1 Jannik Sinner in the Shanghai Masters final, Djokovic was moved by the presence of Federer, who turned up to support.
The Serbian star, currently ranked world No. 4, had not played in Shanghai since 2019, which coincidentally was also the last time he shared the tournament draw with Federer.
In a genuine moment during his runner-up address, Djokovic acknowledged the 20-time Grand Slam champion: “Also, it’s nice to see Roger,” he smiled as the crowd burst into applause.
However, Djokovic joked that the presence of Federer added some extra pressure: “I’m not used to seeing you on the stands I wish you were here on the court playing with us but it’s probably the first time that I’m playing in front of you so I had an added pressure today but no it’s great, thanks for being here.”
The Express reports that Federer has been attendance at the tournament since Friday, where the retired Grand Slam maestro arrived as an ‘icon athlete’. Throughout the weekend, Federer caught live action from courtside, notably during the final match where he was seated beside young talent Carlos Alcaraz and his coach, former tennis ace Juan Carlos Ferrero.
Sinner beat Djokovic in straight sets in Shanghai ( Image:
AFP via Getty Images)
Djokovic quickly shifted his focus to Alcaraz – and the Spaniard’s coach, stating: “Carlos as well, Juan Carlos as well. Thank you for coming out and being part of this match.”
After clinching his seventh title of the season, Sinner also acknowledged the familiar faces in the crowd, joking: ” There are three legends and I played against one legend so I see legends everywhere. I just try to keep up.”
The newly-crowned champion also had some kind words for Djokovic after defeating him 7-6(4) 6-3, saying: ” You’re doing an incredible job,” and wishing the 24-time Major winner all the best not only for this season but also for the next, hoping to see him on big stages for as long as possible.
