Do professional relationships foster love and admiration too? While the question might spark debate for many, for Novak Djokovic, his seven-year collaboration with his sponsor Lacoste has brought him more than just financial rewards— a bond he hardly anticipated. Vocal about his connection with Lacoste, Djokovic now reveals another thoughtful surprise from the brand, highlighting how professional collaborations can evolve into lifelong partnerships if genuine intentions are applied.

Djokovic has been associated with Lacoste since 2017 when the Serb became their ambassador. He has worn the Lacoste apparel during all his tournaments, including the four major tournaments. In 2021, the former ATP number one renewed his contract with the brand, extending till 2025. Since then, the crocodile brand has included annual designs in the Lacoste x Novak Djokovic collection, crafted with Djokovic’s style and performance needs in mind. The collection features everything from ultra-polo shirts to comfortable shorts and accessories, making it a must-have for Djokovic’s supporters.

Recently, the Serb shared a picture of a gift he received from Lacoste on his official IG story. The gift box contained a white polo T-shirt and a black cap. However, what truly stood out was the artwork inside the box—drawings of Djokovic’s on-court moments in Lacoste attire. The thoughtful gesture clearly delighted the Serb. He captioned, “Love it @lacoste,” and added a love-struck emoticon, expressing his gratitude for the gift.

Djokovic has become an invaluable asset to the brand. Lacoste’s CEO, Thierry Guibert, expressed his admiration in a 2021 Forbes interview: “Novak is not only an exceptional athlete but also one of those great champions who have a wonderful spirit both on and off the court. Our meeting in 2017 was a real coup de cœur. His audacity, tenacity, and kindness impressed me, and I am proud that we can continue our common adventure together and accompany him in his new challenges.” Guibert’s statement underscores the brand’s deep satisfaction with the collaboration and the strong bond between the athlete and his sponsor.

In return, Djokovic has often expressed similar sentiments about Lacoste, highlighting the support from the brand’s CEO, Guibert. He revealed how Lacoste’s support had been pivotal in his career, and how the appreciation he received from the brand transcended any professional relationship.

Novak Djokovic praised Lacoste’s CEO confirming “his support at each moment of” the Serb’s career

After the extension of his partnership till 2025, Djokovic had a surprising revelation about his relationship with his sponsor brand. Speaking to Forbes, the former ATP number one said, “I have a real connection with Thierry Guibert, We talk regularly, and I’ve felt his support at each key moment of my career. He even connects with my fan club on social media. It’s quite incredible to see all these different people around the world get together to give me their support.” Djokovic’s words echoed his equation with his sponsors. Djokovic’s partnership with Lacoste changes the idea of professionalism offering insights into a beautiful friendship between two successful people.

Novak Djokovic has consistently proved his value as an established tennis player – achieving excellence that has elevated him as an iconic character in his sport. His success has reached a point where his sponsor feels delighted to be in partnership with the ATP star. The appreciation from the brand showcased Novak Djokovic’s significance not just as a tennis player but also as a global athlete. What do you think about it?