The 2023 US Open champion, Novak Djokovic has started his campaign at the last major tournament of the 2024 season. He is taking on the Moldova’s Radu Albot in the first round. This match could be a cakewalk for the former world number one, but in tennis, you never know! Recently, the Serb shared his thoughts on facing this ‘unfamiliar’ opponent.

Novak Djokovic was found in a happy mood ahead of his first encounter at the 2024 US Open. While reflecting a bit about his thoughts on Albot during an interview with Coco Gauff‘s coach, Brad Gilbert, Djokovic revealed, “‘I’ve done my homework – actually both of my younger brothers faced him and they both lost to him, so hopefully I can avenge my brothers tonight’ [laughs].”

Update! Novak Djokovic thrashed Radu Albot and completed his quest for vengeance. In classic Djokovic fashion, the Serb beat Albot 6-2, 6-2, 6-4 and moves on to round 2, where he will face countryman Laslo Djere.

Novak Djokovic’s brothers, Marko Djokovic and Djordje Djokovic were also pro tennis players. Marko (33) began playing the ITF tournaments in 2006 and turned into a pro a year later. His highest career ranking was 571 and in 2010, he became the fifth player to be included in a Davis Cup QF match against Croatia. He took retirement from tennis in 2019.

However, Djordje Djokovic took his retirement much before (2015). He is the younger brother of Novak and Marko. Djordje’s highest professional accomplishment was to reach the doubles QF at the 2015 China Open with Novak Djokovic. His highest career ranking in the doubles has been 559, but in the singles, his best record is reaching the 1463rd spot in September 2013. These three brothers have time and again showcased their strong bonds during their various interactions.

“We have a great relationship” – Novak Djokovic speaks on his bonding with his brothers

During an earlier interview with Tennis.com, Djokovic revealed how he always tried to participate in their careers and figure out ways for them to improve their game further. He added, “I want to be able to speak freely with them, not only about tennis. Whenever they want to talk, we talk. We have a great relationship.” In the 2019 Monte Carlo Masters, Djokovic was even spotted playing doubles matches with his younger brother Marko.

In the same year, during the Madrid Open, Marko also joined Novak’s team as an assistant coach. While speaking on this newest addition to his team, Djokovic was heard saying, “It’s really nice to have a family member with me on the tour.” Both Marko and Djordje have been two of the biggest supporters of Nole.

During a 2016 interview, Marko revealed how his elder brother is a bit different from all others. “He (Novak) likes to help people. He knows if he has much success has more chances to help others. So he wants to win and keep winning,” said Marko. He revealed how Nole always tries to help needy people. According to him, no one can really hate his brother because he’s an inspiration to the rest of the world.

Djordje has also shown his support to Novak in 2022, when Djokovic had an issue getting into Australia. Nick Kyrgios wasn’t too impressed with Djokovic’s stand at that time. However, we saw Djordje stepping up for his brother to lend his support in the whole controversy. So, standing up for each other has always been the motto of these three brothers. And, perhaps we’re seeing the same at the 2024 US Open as well!