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‘What’s the Point of Playing the US Open?’: After Novak Djokovic’s $40,000,000 Masterplan, Roger Federer’s Bold New York Message Repels Arch-Rival’s Take

Published 09/02/2023, 11:59 AM EDT

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Novak Djokovic is back doing what he does best at the US Open! After missing the major for the past two years, the Djoker has enthralled the New York crowd like no other. His former biggest rival, Roger Federer is a beloved name in Corona Park, where he won five consecutive titles in one of the toughest tour events. While the two might never face off against one another professionally again, Flushing Meadows has been witness to some of their greatest clashes.

Interestingly enough, they view the final Slam event of the year in polar ways. As the Swiss Maestro enjoys his retirement life, he can not help but miss the hustle and bustle of New York City during the US Open. On the other side is Djokovic. Despite applauding the radiating energy of the Arthur Ashe Stadium, the Serb loves his solitude more than anything else, something that Federer can not agree to… Strikingly different views towards the US Open – and how!

Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic love two opposite sides of the US Open

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The bustling thunder of the US Open is indeed remarkable. The frenzied American crowd loves themselves a flamboyant environment, and retired tennis legend Roger Federer can agree with that.

In a podcast, Crosstown with Pat Kiernan, Federer expressed his love for New York City. He stated, “I’ve always loved coming here. This is one of the greatest cities on earth.” Reminiscing about good old times, he stated, “Some of the most successful moments here.”

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Furthermore, he said, “I used to spend three weeks here in a row and I always said, ‘I have to stay in the city throughout the US Open. Because if you don’t stay in the city, what’s the point of playing the US Open?'” The radiating energy of the city allured Federer even when he was actively playing.

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Federer added, “You have to feel everything, the hustle and bustle of the city.” Dictating a part of his itinerary, he stated, “I used to go out into a lot of restaurants and even played once in Central Park, actually, because my back was stiff.”

So, if someone claimed that they saw Federer playing at Central Park during their walk, they were probably not lying. However, this notion does not necessarily align with every player. His arch-rival Novak Djokovic is one of them who has confessed to not being a part of the hustle and bustle of the city actively.

Watch This Story: Days After Rival Novak Djokovic’s Croatian Getaway Roger Federer Follows Suit As He Continues His Dream Summer Vacation With Wife Mirka And Children

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Djokovic treasures his solitude over the energetic aura of New York City

The Serbian tennis star shares contrasting views to that of his former rival, Roger Federer. Djokovic treasures the US Open and the New Yorkers’ energy at the Arthur Ashe Stadium. However, at the end of the day, he enjoys his solitude.

In an interview with the New York Times, he stated how he explored the radiating nightlife of New York City when he was young. He admitted, “I was lucky early on to have people around me that kept me at bay. But I did have the freedom to explore and go around. But I did have freedom to explore and go around. Let’s say that I did get to know New York at night as well.”

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However, because of his loved ones, he stayed grounded. To avoid the bustling distraction of the city, the tennis legend lives in his $40 million mansion in New Jersey during his run at the US Open. There, he switches into what he likes to call a “lockdown mode” and finds peace in the simplicity of being around the trees and nature. By keeping himself away from distractions, that might, in fact, work like a charm and Djokovic may finally win the US Open this year.

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Written by:

Shivali Sharma

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Shivali Sharma is a tennis writer at EssentiallySports, who specializes in off-court topics and has a particular focus on the legendary ‘Queen of the Court’, Serena Williams. With a wealth of experience in the industry, Shivali has authored numerous articles covering varied topics concerning the 23-time Grand Slam champion, including her personal life, career, and more. In addition to her work on Serena Williams, Shivali is also a huge fan of Naomi Osaka and admires the four-time Major winner, particularly for her advocacy for mental health.
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Edited by:

Tony Thomas