‘I’ve not spoken to Federer – but I respect and admire him’ – Djokovic on departed Swiss

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.

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“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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