Alexander Zverev Matches Novak Djokovic’s Wit but Trolls Himself in Cheeky Response Over His Fame at the Shanghai Masters

“I missed being in China.” Novak Djokovic said, following his return to the tournament after five years! Aiming for his 100th ATP Tour title, the Serb is now looking for a fifth title victory in Shanghai. Djokovic intends to experience the “love and energy and support” from his Chinese fans. And his admirers are pouring their love for ‘Nole,’ and it showed even during his practice session with Alexander Zverev as well! So, when Djokovic teased Zverev by hinting at the massive support of people, Zverev, with his modest and humorous response, left everyone in stitches!

Before making his 10th appearance at the Shanghai Masters and facing Alex Michelsen in the opening round, Novak Djokovic had a warm-up practice session with Alexander Zverev. Djokovic and Zverev received a warm welcome during their stroll to the practice court as hundreds of fans gathered around them, while Djokovic walked behind Zverev to reach the court. Considering the Serb’s immense popularity in China, it is fair to say that his stardom might have drawn the majority of the crowds there! 

And sharing a glimpse of that massive fandom through a video, Djokovic playfully poked fun at his opponent through an Instagram post. “Just a normal stroll to practice court with @alexzverev123.P.S. Watching his back, making sure no one approaches him from behind 😂” he wrote. Zverev did not let it slide by and took a jab at the former World No. 1, by resharing the video with the caption, “Yea I’m sure everyone was there just for me 😂😂 @djokernole.” Acknowledging the reality of Djokovic’s star power, their lighthearted exchange amused fans worldwide! That’s not it! 

Djokovic, who is coming to Shanghai after a second-round US Open exit, seemed to have already won his fans’ hearts. He posted a video of fans cheering for him in unison before and during the session. Furthermore, he also shared a few glimpses of both Djokovic and Zverev struggling to fix the net (Zverev shared it too, with the caption, “Mechanics at work @djokernole”) and having a handshake at the end of their practice. Soon after that, Djokovic engaged in giving autographs to fans and having some special moments with fans!

The 27-year-old Zverev (set to face Mattia Bellucci in the opening round in Shanghai) has always vocalized his appreciation for the Serb. Last year, during an interview, he admitted, “He takes care of himself, and that’s his number one priority above everything else. I think he’s done extremely well doing that over the last few years.” Per him, despite Djokovic’s age (36 at the time), he doesn’t think that the Serb is “going to stop” dominating the tennis courts! And Djokovic’s comments during his pre-tournament conference further reflected the same as he shared his enthusiasm and love for the sport!

Novak Djokovic describes his “relationship” with tennis!

Ahead of his Shanghai Masters tournament, the 37-year-old player sat down for an interview, where a reporter asked him about his love for tennis. Novak Djokovic firmly replied that it “will never fade away.” The Serb who completed the career golden slam this year acknowledged his deep “emotions” while playing the sport. Djokovic, who has remained titleless (this season) so far, emphasized, “And not particularly only in the tournament, but also in practice sessions. Sometimes it’s not always going your way, but I think my relationship with tennis goes much deeper than a tournament or a year or success or failure.”

Despite admitting that his “career is complete” after winning the gold medal in Paris, Djokovic’s hunger for more remains stronger than ever. While talking about his future plans after retirement, he confessed, “I’m going to stay in tennis, stay involved in different roles, because I feel like I o this sport a lot for what it has given to me.” While Djokovic continues to amuse fans with his talent, his admirers will shower their love for the Serb, be it in China or any other part of the world!