Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic have shared one of the most intense rivalries in the history of tennis. The duo faced each other a whopping 50 times, which included several major finals. However, their long-term rivalry hasn’t affected their admiration for each other. Djokovic has praised Federer at every possible opportunity. Federer, too does the same. But recently, the Swiss Maestro had the highest praise for the Serbinator, who set the record as one of the oldest players to make it to a Grand Slam final.
Tennis is one of the few sports where even rivals show mutual respect for each other. Djokovic and Federer are considered to be two of the greatest players to ever grace the sport. At the same time, they are very respectable towards their opponents. The ever-gentlemanly Roger Federer, in particular, has often come up with compliments for his rivals. But what did the Swiss Maestro have to say here?
Roger Federer’s honest Novak Djokovic prediction
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The ongoing US Open has revolved heavily around the potential clash of two players: Novak Djokovic and Carlos Alcaraz. There has also been quite a lot of hype around Americans like Frances Tiafoe and Ben Shelton. However, the entire world was expecting to see the generational battle between Djokovic and Alcaraz in the final.
Now, predicting the eventual champion is very difficult, especially after the recent Djokovic-Alcaraz encounters. And now with Alcaraz out of the draw, the contentions and predictions have been thrown up in the air! However, Federer has had his say already.
Recently, Federer sat with a renowned German publication and shared his thoughts regarding the US Open. When asked about the title favorite, the Swiss Maestro put behind the agelong rivalry with the current World No. 2. According to Sports Illustrated Deutschland, Federer said, “I would bet on Novak Djokovic. That’s a sure bet.”
Jinx it Roger! 🙂
Roger Federer about his US Open favourite:
"I would bet on Novak Djokovic. That's a sure bet.”
— Brian🇨🇭 (@camerlengo73_2) September 5, 2023
Federer oozed class with his prediction. He holds his rival in high regard and refuses to consider anyone else as a favorite above him. While Federer is out there dropping his insights, it seems like the 20-time major champions might just be missing New York a little.
Federer recalls his days of glory at the US Open
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Ever since his retirement, Federer has been quite clear about not missing tennis and enjoying the retirement life. However, the charm of New York and Flushing Meadows is tempting, to say the least. Federer admitted his love for the city in a recent podcast. He called New York ‘one of the greatest cities on earth‘, and suggested that every player must live in the city while playing the US Open.
His views were contrasting to Djokovic’s on this matter. He prefers his privacy and lives in the peace of New Jersey instead, far away from the chaotic bustle of city life.
Do you prefer Federer’s idea of electric city life or Djokovic’s liking for a quiet and peaceful stay? Let us know in the comments.
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