Novak Djokovic has solidified his status as one of tennis’s greatest players, often referred to as part of the “Big Three.” With 24 Grand Slam titles, 99 career titles, and an Olympic gold medal, his achievements are remarkable. However, Djokovic’s journey has not been without controversy. Despite his immense popularity and a legion of fans, he has faced significant backlash for various actions throughout his career. But does he possess an innate ability to redeem himself time and again?

His recent behavior during Juan Martin del Potro’s farewell exhibition match raised eyebrows. From smashing racquets to arguing with the umpire over double faults, Djokovic’s antics have drawn criticism. The 2024 season also saw him under fire for a perceived lack of wins. Yet, he continues to charm fans with his personality, exemplified by allowing Del Potro to win his final match in Argentina—a gesture that left Andy Roddick astonished.

On the ‘Served’ podcast, Roddick praised Djokovic’s actions, stating, “Novak going there, I say this with all respect, finding a way to lose to Juan Martin del Potro in his current state in Argentina. It’s just a beautiful act.” He emphasized that this move reflects the deep respect Djokovic has for those close to him. Which was previously seen with his long-time rival, Rafael Nadal.

Last month, Djokovic expressed his commitment to attending Rafa’s farewell tournament at the Davis Cup. However, the Spanish team was eliminated in the first round, shocking many. In response to this and to make up for for his lost promise, he posted a heartfelt message on the Davis Cup Instagram congratulating Nadal on his stellar career. Roddick and co-host Jon Wertheim discussed Djokovic’s mixed reputation.

This can be highlighted through past controversies like his anti-vaccine stance during the 2022 Australian Open and testing positive for COVID-19 while attending an interview. Now Roddick noted Nole’s capacity for growth and redemption: “He has the ability to be inspired by people and then act on that inspiration in the form of things that are really good.”

As Djokovic aims to further enhance his legacy, he is now focused on improving his game. He has brought Andy Murray on board as his new coach for the Australian Open—a decision that has sparked much debate among fans and commentators alike. Tennis commentator Gigi Salmon drew parallels between Djokovic’s situation and Serena Williams’s challenges toward the end of her career.

The similarity between Serena and Novak’s 25th Grand Slam race

On November 9, during a Sky Sports Tennis Podcast, Gigi Salmon reflected on the challenges faced by Serena Williams in the final stretch of her illustrious career. She noted, “Does everyone think he’s going to get it? Because I thought back to Serena Williams, and she made it very clear what she wanted to do. She was getting to finals, but it just felt… It was all consuming. And she’s achieved so much, but that one thing she was talking about, she just couldn’t quite get across the finish line. Because it gets harder.”

The WTA star retired in 2022 after a challenging end to her career, highlighted by a first-round loss at Wimbledon to an unseeded player and heavy defeats leading up to the US Open. Meanwhile, Novak Djokovic stands on the brink of history, chasing his 25th Grand Slam crown after a frustrating 2024, where he secured Olympic singles gold in Paris but failed to add another major title, leaving him tied with Margaret Court’s record of 24. This pursuit mirrors the challenges faced by Serena Williams in her final years.

Throughout their careers, Djokovic and Williams have shown mutual respect for each other. In 2021, Djokovic honored Williams by expressing admiration for her legacy, stating, “I can empathize with Serena and what she’s going through,” while emphasizing that her greatness transcends her record-breaking achievements: “She’s such an amazing champion who inspires both male and female athletes around the world.”

Djokovic further elaborated on Williams’s influence beyond tennis, saying, “But I think when you see a larger picture for her and everything that who she is, what she stands for on and off the court… she’s one of the greatest ever… athletes, not just tennis player.” His heartfelt words underscore the deep respect shared between two of tennis’s all-time greats. Their legacies continue to inspire future generations, showcasing how their impact extends far beyond the court. What are your thoughts on this?