Shutting Down Fans’ Noise, Novak Djokovic Poses With Martina Navratilova and French Soccer Legend During Laureus Awards in Spain

Martina Navratilova poses with Novak Djokovic! Earlier this year, during the Australian Open, Martina Navratilova accused Novak Djokovic of purposefully creating “drama” and picking on fans to fire him up on the court. It was not the first instance of heat between the two, with the most memorable being the WTA legend’s critique of Nole after he got detained and his visa declined around the Australian Open 2022. With that history between them, Navratilova was spotted in a single frame with Novak Djokovic and French soccer legend, Patrice Evra.

The picture was taken at the 2024 edition of the Laureus Awards, where Djokovic won a record 5th Sportsman of the Year award. Among the attendees was Martina Navratilova, who also serves as the ambassador of the Laureus Awards. While many eye-grabbing outfits and pictures made the rounds online, Djokovic’s selfie with Navratilova is what has gone viral. “I love this game. (and this selfie),” wrote the Serb on the X post that Navratilova reposted.  “Lookin’ good:)” was her caption!

The former Czech-American player was also a part of the highlight reel at Laureus that congratulated Djokovic for his achievements. And after witnessing multiple instances of hostility between them, fans have lashed out at Navratilova for her seemingly contradictory behavior. But with this latest picture, is Djokovic putting aside the animosity?

2023 was remarkable for the Serbinator, with major achievements including 3 out of 4 Grand Slams. At the upcoming French Open, he may make history with his 25th Grand Slam title. But what does Martina Navratilova think? The retired WTA star has always been a big fan of Carlos Alcaraz.

She has time and again showcased her preference for the no.3 over the current world no.1. In 2022, during an interview with Prime Video Sport, Navratilova said, “For me, he’s a better version of Djokovic. He moves like Novak but he hits a better ball out wide. More powerful than I’ve ever seen. He’s defying the laws of gravity out there.” Even this year, just a few days ago she expressed her admiration at the prowess of the young Spaniard.

Martina Navratilova says Novak Djokovic is “incredible” but Carlos Alcaraz is built differently

During a press conference at the Palacio de Cibeles at the Laureus Awards event, Martina Navratilova said, “I have to say that Carlos is so complete….Djokovic is incredible but Alcaraz takes tennis to a different level because he improvises better than anyone else.” To most, this statement is not surprising because Martina Navratilova and Novak Djokovic don’t have the best track record of being friends.

While doing a commentary in a match, she once stated that Djokovic generally plays against the crowd unless he plays in Serbia. This statement sparked a major controversy at that time and she had to face the anger of ‘The Nole army’.

But with this latest Laureus Awards series of incidents, might fans expect the winds of change? Share your thoughts on this ongoing battle between Martina Navratilova and Novak Djokovic.