Novak Djokovic has Roger Federer wish after losing Shanghai Masters final in front of him
Novak Djokovic paid tribute to his old rival after losing the Shanghai Masters final.
Novak Djokovic gave Roger Federer a shoutout in his runner-up speech
Novak Djokovic gave Roger Federer a shoutout in his runner-up speech (Image: Tennis TV)
Novak Djokovic paid a special tribute to Roger Federer after his old rival turned up to watch his Shanghai Masters final.
The world No. 4 suffered a straight-set defeat to Jannik Sinner in front of a star-studded crowd, with Carlos Alcaraz and Juan Carlos Ferrero also in attendance.
Djokovic had been back playing in Shanghai for the first time since 2019 when Federer was also in the draw. And he admitted he had a heartfelt wish involving his former foe.
Federer has been in attendance at the Shanghai Masters since Friday. The retired Swiss star is an ‘icon athlete’ at the tournament and has enjoyed some matches court-side over the weekend.
So it was no surprise to see him sitting in the second row at the baseline for the championship match between Djokovic and Sinner. The 20-time Grand Slam champion was in good company – he sat between Alcaraz and Alcaraz’s coach, fellow retired star Ferrero.
Their attendance caught both players’ eyes and Djokovic made sure to give his old rival a shoutout in his runner-up speech. “Also, it’s nice to see Roger,” he smiled as the crowd erupted into cheers.
But the 37-year-old admitted he would rather see Federer somewhere else in the stadium.
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“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.”
Djokovic quickly turned his attention to one of his current rivals – Alcaraz – and the Spaniard’s coach. He added: “Carlos as well, Juan Carlos as well. Thank you for coming out and being part of this match.”
After lifting his seventh title of the season, Sinner also acknowledged the familiar faces in the crowd. ” There are three legends and I played against one legend so I see legends everywhere. I just try to keep up,” he laughed.
