As Novak Djokovic gears up to face Matteo Arnaldi in the second round of the Madrid Open, fans are not only anticipating a competitive match but also enjoying the friendly banter between the two players.
Djokovic, a 24-time Grand Slam champion and three-time Madrid Open winner, enters the tournament as the clear favorite. However, the matchup has a playful backstory dating back to their last encounter at the 2023 Paris Masters, where Djokovic won comfortably in straight sets.
What stood out after that match was Arnaldi’s lighthearted social media post, where he jokingly compared himself to Spider-Man doing splits, tagging Djokovic with the message:
“@djokernole I’m coming for you.”
Djokovic’s cheeky reply?
“First, you need to be facing the net and not the wall. Then we can talk 😂😂.”
The witty comeback left Arnaldi amused—and a little red-faced.
👏 Mutual Respect Beneath the Laughter
Despite the teasing, Arnaldi has always been open about his admiration for Djokovic.
“Djokovic has been my idol since I was a child. I watched him growing up and tried to copy his focus and movements,” he told Tennis Majors.
Following their Paris clash, Arnaldi said he was overwhelmed by the chance to face his hero:
“I was a bit nervous. It was surreal playing against the world No. 1.”
🏆 Djokovic Eyes Milestone, Arnaldi Eyes Upset
At 37, Djokovic is chasing his 100th career title—an elite club currently occupied only by Jimmy Connors and Roger Federer. He’s also just one Grand Slam title away from surpassing Margaret Court’s record of 24.
But 2025 has been a rocky road for the Serbian legend. He’s endured early exits in Monte Carlo and Indian Wells and lost the Miami Open final. A loss in Madrid would mark his third consecutive defeat—something that hasn’t happened since 2018.
Arnaldi, ranked World No. 44, represents the next generation. At 24, he’s steadily climbing the ranks and hopes to challenge Djokovic with his aggressive forehand and improved service game.
Still, with 96 career wins at Roland Garros alone, Djokovic remains a powerhouse on clay—and a formidable opponent.
⚔️ What to Expect
Their second-ever match, taking place Saturday, promises to blend fierce competition with good-natured camaraderie. For Djokovic, it’s another step toward tennis history. For Arnaldi, it’s a chance to test himself against the legend he once imitated in practice.
One thing’s certain: the match will be as entertaining off the court as it is on it.
