“Djokovic has been my idol since I was a child” – Arnaldi

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.”

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