Novak Djokovic’s supremacy on the tennis court cannot be denied. Beyond his unmatched talent, though, is an ongoing pursuit of something maybe even more elusive: followers’ constant affection. Jim Courier, a former tennis player, recently joined the chorus of those expressing their recognition of Djokovic’s desire for ‘love’ from the audience.

Djokovic marked his 400th master-level win during the Indian Wells this year after his five-year hiatus from the tournament. Reflecting on this comeback, Jim Courier pointed out the revival of fans’ admiration and respect for the tennis legend, saying how much Djokovic needed it to happen.

Jim Courier on Novak Djokovic’s craving for ‘love’ from his fans

The COVID-19 pandemic forced the cancellation of the 2020 BNP Paribas Open. However, Novak Djoković was also unable to compete in the next three events because of some strict restrictions. Because of this, the tennis maestro was kept from relishing his victories and the corresponding love from the audience.

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But being back on the same court this year and receiving love from his fans after the victory came as a relief to Djokovic. Addressing this point in the ‘The Craig Shapiro Tennis Podcast’, Jim Courier said, “And, you know, he’s a guy who craved it, understandably. And it’s been a bit a little bit of an up and down relationship with him and the audiences. But at this stage of his career, it feels like he’s getting into and it’s overdue.”

Many Djokovic fans agree with Courier’s assessment of the player’s career. Unquestionably, the Serbian phenomenon has had a rocky relationship with viewers around the globe. He was denied entry into the United States for the entirety of 2022. This created quite a stir among his fans.

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Jim Courier further said, “It’s hard to believe it’s been since 2019 that he’s been here, and the energy is great. And it’s kind of been a constant. Him coming back to places where he hasn’t been for a while, the US Open last year, Australia.” Novak Djokovic experienced a bad crowd during the Australian Open this year. His protest on-court about the fact further adds to the point highlighted by Courier.

Djokovic was not so happy about the audience at the Australian Open

The World No. 1 Novak Djokovic has a love-hate relationship with the fans of Australia. A glimpse of this occurred at the Australian Open earlier this year, and fans witnessed it. His reaction after the match expressed his frustration about the matter. He himself admitted, “There was a lot of things that were being told to me on the court, particularly from that corner, and the same side the other corner”.

The reaction from the fans upset him, and he went on to confront the people in the crowd during his match who disrespected him. Djokovic’s pursuit of public affection is a persistent undercurrent as he strives to carve his place in tennis history. Even though the path may be difficult, Djokovic’s relentless commitment to his art guarantees that his legacy will live on, despite the fluctuations in public perception.

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