Novak Djokovic’s Supportive Efforts Move Jimmy Connors as the American Tennis Legend Lauds the Serbian’s ‘Amazing’ Gesture

Controversies and Novak Djokovic go hand in hand. But does that stop him from inspiring the younger generation and motivating them to reach his heights? Perhaps not, Novak Djokovic is known for his generosity in helping the younger players. One such recent example is the rise of the 20-year-old reigning Next Gen ATP Finals winner, Hamad Medjedovic. 

Medjedovic had earlier revealed how the current world number one, helped him throughout his career to reach where he is today. Now, the 71-year-old American and former number one- Jimmy Connors is moved by the efforts of Novak Djokovic on Hamad Medjedovic. Here’s what he said about the 20-year-old’s idol in tennis.

The American Legend in tennis praises Novak Djokovic for his efforts to uplift others around him

Hamad Medjedovic had an outstanding end to his breakthrough season. He clinched the Next Gen ATP Finals defeating Arthur Fils in a 5-set thriller. The match lasted for almost 2 hours and 11 minutes. This victory in Saudi Arabia has now made the young Serb, the lowest-ranked champion in the history of the tournament.

However, his journey to the biggest stages of the game wouldn’t have been easy if Djokovic hadn’t come to his help. The 20YO had earlier revealed how the 24 Grand Slam title holder has been mentoring him and helping him financially. Djokovic has played a pivotal role to support him and encourage him to reach heights at the top level.

Jimmy Connors is quite impressed with the efforts of Nole to contribute back to the sport, which has given him so much to cherish. ‘Djokovic takes a lot of heat for a lot of things. But, he’s willing to not only offer his opinion, you know. And a lot, don’t want opinions or like, I’m just gonna stop right there. But he’s not only willing to offer his opinion. But he’s willing to step up, and take the kid and say, I’m willing to help you and give you a chance. I think you’ve got the talent and what it takes to be a great player whether it’s number one, or number 20, or number, whatever. But at least, you know, he’s given the kid an opportunity,‘ Jimmy Connors.

Connors then went on to appreciate the unbeaten run of Medjedovic in the tournament which earned him $514,000 in his bag. The 8 times Grand Slam winner added, that he likes Djokovic because he stands for what he believes in. He appreciated his bold stands but also said: ‘If you’re going to do that, you better be damn sure that once you leave tennis that you find another way you know, to be successful. Because tennis doesn’t step up and take care of you.‘

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‘But Joker’s come around at a time where he’s made millions upon millions upon millions of dollars. And he’s earned it because he’s got the most grand slams, and whatever. But to take a kid under his wing, and to see the talent and to be willing to step up and give the kid a break and help him pretty amazing stuff,‘ Jimmy Connors.

Djokovic surpassed Jimmy Connors with his astonishing feat

Novak Djokovic had one of the most successful seasons this year. He bagged 3 out of 4 Grand Slam titles. The Serb ended the year as world number 1 for a record 8th time in his career. Besides, his remarkable achievements this year. Djoker has also managed to break Jimmy Connors’ record of 11 years on the Tour with 5 or more titles. Djokovic has now managed to clinch 5 or more titles in 12 years of his career. He has won 7 titles this year. Can he make a clean sweep at the majors next year?

Djokovic is now heading to Dubai. He has also invited Hamad Medjedovic for a training camp ahead of the 2024 season. The 36YO Serb is now just 11 titles behind Jimmy Connors. Can he overtake Connors and get the most number of career titles in the history of the game?

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