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via Reuters

via Reuters

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  Debate

Debate

Is Novak Djokovic unfairly targeted by the tennis world, or is he just too outspoken for his own good?

Former world number one Novak Djokovic is “frustrated.” Despite taking a dig at disrespectful attendees of his match against Holger Rune, Djokovic seemed attentive to people who admire him. Showing his strong personality again in public, Djokovic slammed one of his major partners as they failed to keep up with his reputation.

Djokovic has spoken about his dissatisfaction with his sponsor Lacoste. After defeating Rune at Wimbledon’s R0und of 16, Djokovic took a dig at his long-term sponsor Lacoste. Partnering with this brand since 2017 after Uniqlo, Djokovic expressed certain disappointment with the company. “I’ve had dissatisfaction & frustration because many people looking for my products don’t have the possibility to find them in my sponsor’s stores. Some things are changing for the better now, but I am still not satisfied”- he said.

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This former world number one, who is often spotted in Lacoste apparel on the court, showed an unpleasant attitude mentioning that he received many compliments from people about not being able to buy items from his clothing line. He addressed how despite Lacoste bringing some changes, the Serb is still not totally cool with it and expects the brand to positively adhere to his points. “I hope that my sponsor will increase the level of production and quantity, but also availability, so that people have the opportunity to find the products. The level of tennis I’m playing is very popular all over the world”- said Djokovic.

Now, Lacoste offers a special section dedicated to Djokovic’s products. While these items are available online, the in-store experience is different for the customers. “Sure, my products can be bought on the website, but it’s different when people go to a store”- mentioned the Serb.
Novak Djokovic’s statements express that he is a responsible representative of his sponsor. More than earning a profit with his partnership with Lacoste, the Serb is careful about how his sponsors treat those people who want to purchase from his clothing line. However, he has more than one reason to be disappointed with his sponsors as Lacoste’s blunder showed their lack of knowledge about one of their main sponsor’s career achievements.

What’s your perspective on:

Is Novak Djokovic unfairly targeted by the tennis world, or is he just too outspoken for his own good?

Have an interesting take?

Novak Djokovic feels “frustrated” with Lacoste’s faulty promotions

Lacoste also apologized to Djokovic last month for releasing a range of tracksuits celebrating the Serb’s 25th Grand Slam win when Djokovic has won only 24 Grand Slam titles to date. Stating how “frustrated” he feels, Djokovic further said, “I’m not happy with the way my sponsor do my marketing promotion, I’m frustrated.” 

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However, Thierry Guibert, CEO of Lacoste quickly accepted their fault and dropped a sorry for the Serb on their X platform. “I have to apologize about that. It was a mistake on our side due to IT issues,” Guibert tweeted.

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Nevertheless, Djokovic’s recent statement about his disappointment with Lacoste expressed the poor treatment Djokovic received from his sponsor despite being one of the most popular athletes in the world. More than that, it showed the Serb’s responsible attitude towards his followers ensuring they don’t have to encounter such problems in the future.