“Djokovic has been my idol since I was a child” – Arnaldi
Novak Djokovic’s win over Rafael Nadal in the 2012 Australian Open final notably holds a special place in the Italian’s heart
Arnaldi 2024 Miami Zuma/Panoramic
Matteo Arnaldi, the world No 37 from Italy, has revealed idolizing Novak Djokovic. The 24-time Grand Slam champion’s win over Rafael Nadal in the 2012 Australian Open final notably holds a special place in the Italian’s heart.
Arnaldi took up tennis professionally in 2019 but hasn’t faced Djokovic on the ATP Tour yet.
In a recent interview with GQ Italia, the 23-year-old expressed his admiration for the Serbian:
“I like tennis just as I play, I watch a lot of matches on TV too, to the point that my team tells me to take a break every now and then!” (translated)
Djokovic has been my idol since I was a child.”
Arnaldi then mentioned Djokovic’s marathon victory (5-7, 6-4, 6-2, 6-7 (5), 7-5) against Spain’s Rafael Nadal in the title clash at Melbourne Park played nearly 13 years ago, affirming he has respect not just for his idol but Nadal and Roger Federer as well.
“One of the matches that I was most passionate about was the 2012 Australian Open final, Nole against Nadal,” the Italian added. “Even if I have a predilection for the Serb, it’s impossible not to recognise that with Federer and Nadal those three have done something special.”
People in this post
More tennis news
Los Angeles devastation gives Vekic “new perspective” as coach Shriver misses Australian Open
Australian Open: Blinkova battles past Saville to move into second round
Australian Open: Halys overturns two-set deficit to beat Walton and reach second round
Australian Open: Resurgent Opelka recovers against Onclin to make second round
Clinical Zverev too strong for Pouille, moves into second round
