Novak Djokovic has praised Serena Williams’ “epic” return to professional tennis ahead of her expected appearance at the US Open.
Speaking to PEOPLE about his Prime Video documentary, Novak Djokovic: The Wolf in Winter, the 39-year-old tennis star hailed Williams’ comeback at the age of 44, four years after her last professional match.
Novak Djokovic praises Serena Williams’ comeback
“Serena is an inspiration. Serena is epic,” he said. “I’ve always been a fan of what she’s doing after two children, coming back and attempting to compete at the highest level in Slams.”
He added, “Regardless of what she does, it’s already incredibly inspiring. We should all enjoy her presence.”
Will Novak Djokovic play into his 40s?
Asked whether he could see himself continuing to play in his 40s, Djokovic said, “I don’t want to be missing out on different events of close family members.”
“I’ve lived an incredibly fulfilling, successful professional life. In a sense, you have to be kind of selfish as an individual athlete to be pursuing your career, and everyone else is supportive of you.”
Novak Djokovic addresses retirement questions
After more than two decades in professional tennis, the 24-time Grand Slam champion is accustomed to questions about when he will retire. However, he acknowledged that the frequency of those questions can be frustrating.
“I do understand that people would like to know exactly when the moment is coming, but I don’t know it yet myself,” he said. “I’d like to play till Olympics ’28, which is in two years. But let’s see.”
The Prime Video documentary follows Djokovic’s journey from growing up in war-torn Yugoslavia in the 1990s to becoming one of the greatest tennis players in history. Djokovic hopes viewers will connect with the “universal values” reflected in his story.
Djokovic returns to the US Open in New York City seeking a record-breaking 25th Grand Slam title. He will face Mariano Navone in the first round on Sunday, August 30.
Meanwhile, Williams has received a wild card to compete in the women’s doubles tournament alongside her sister, Venus Williams.
Source: jang.com.pk
