‘I’ve not spoken to Federer – but I respect and admire him’ – Djokovic on departed Swiss
The two superstars haven’t spoken since Federer’s emotional departure from tennis
Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic (Antoine Couvercelle/Panoramic)
The crowd on Rod Laver Arena gave the very mention of Roger Federer’s name a huge ovation on Wednesday night – but Novak Djokovic says he has not been in contact with the Swiss superstar since September’s Laver Cup.
The recently-retired Federer was mentioned in the post-match chat between Djokovic and interviewer Jim Courier as they discussed his first-ever Australian Open semi-final – back in 2008, when he beat the Swiss and then top seed 7-5, 6-3, 7-6 (5).
“Our relationship hasn’t developed in that sense, but regardless, I feel respect and admiration towards Roger, and gratitude, of course, because of everything he has done for tennis,” the Serb said in his native tongue during his press conference.
“The interview with Courier just went that way, so I took the opportunity to send him a message.”
And he sent out an invitation to his former rival.
“I would like for us to ski together. He grew up in Switzerland, probably skied a lot, but I know he said he didn’t while he was a professional tennis player. I am obsessed with skiing, so I always told sponsors that I don’t want the non-skiing clause in the contract!”
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