Off-court trash talk is a common occurrence in tennis. While some players do it out of jest, many are more subtle with their approach. Novak Djokovic is someone who lies in the latter category. Although he is outspoken about his thoughts, he isn’t too forward when it comes to outright dissing other players. Ahead of his match with Gael Monfils in the Cincinnati Masters, Djokovic took an uncharacteristic dig at the player, given the massive difference in their head-to-head.

While the Serbian player fanned the flames as he jabbed at his next opponent, he has also been the target of several cheeky comments in his life as well. As he praised Monaco’s new stadium on his social media, Serena Williams took a dig at the Serb while praising her hometown.

Novak Djokovic remains confident about destroying his next opponent

After a long absence from the American tournaments, the Djoker is finally back to lay his claim to the hard court at the Western and Southern Open. Although ousted from his doubles stint in the first match, the Serbian played an amazing game and proved his form. Facing Alejandro Davidovich Fokina in the first round of Singles, Djokovic set up a solid first set before Fokina retired due to an injury. 

Carrying on the momentum from his win, the Serbian player took a slight dig at his next opponent, Gael Monfils. The two players have faced each other 18 times throughout the years. Even after so many matches, Monfils has not managed to win against Djokovic even once. Their current head-to-head statistic sits at 18-0 in favor of the Serbian legend. 

When asked about facing him next and their previous matches, the 23-time Grand Slam winner said, “I think he knows it too. (Laughter.) Hopefully, that doesn’t change tomorrow.”

READ MORE: ‘Elastic’ Novak Djokovic Receives the Best Compliment That Even His Rivals Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal Failed to Get as Spain Tennis Sensation Drops Major Praise

Confident about his return to the US, the Serbian couldn’t help but poke fun at the French player about their upcoming match. But while Djokovic may have come out on top this time, he knows what it is like to be on the other end too. 

When Serena Williams mocked the Djoker

In Monaco, Djokovic lauded a newly-built stadium for its finish and the beauty surrounding it. He shared a video of the venue on his Instagram story and created a post for it. While he praised the track, the Queen of the Court couldn’t help but leave a cheeky comment. She commented that she mistook the area for Compton, given how Djokovic had described it in the caption.

While the ATP World No. 2 is a star full of humor, he knows when to get serious. While he took a dig at Monfils, one thing is clear: Djokovic will only be focused on playing his best at the Western & Southern Open.

WATCH THIS STORY: Serena Williams’ Sister’s Epic Reaction to Niece’s Fairy Tale-Themed Wedding Inspired by Her Legendary Aunt