Novak Djokovic unexpectedly appeared at Aryna Sabalenka`s pre-Wimbledon press conference, offering some lighthearted yet critical feedback on her game.
World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka was nearing the end of her media session when Djokovic made a surprising entry before his own turn to speak to reporters in SW19.
Djokovic, a seven-time Wimbledon champion, was informed Sabalenka was on her final question but jokingly told the press officer he intended to interrupt his friend`s session.
The 24-time Grand Slam winner was heard humorously prompting her to finish, whispering, “Come on, let`s go, please” with a grin as he entered and caught Sabalenka off guard on Saturday.
Sabalenka smiled and said goodbye to the media, then playfully took on the role of interviewer, asking Djokovic about their recent practice hit at the All England Club.
The pair had been filmed practicing together earlier in the week. Sabalenka is aiming for her first Wimbledon title, while Djokovic is pursuing a record-equalling eighth championship, matching Roger Federer.
Sabalenka, 27, invited him to join her, saying, “You see guys, come in here then,” and offered him her seat, which he declined.
The US Open champion then asked Djokovic directly: “First of all, let me ask a question. What do you think about hitting with me? How do you see my level? Am I good?”
Djokovic responded with a mix of compliment and critique: “I think you have the potential. You’re a really talented player. You have nice strokes, good technique.”
“Can I be honest? You’re lacking intensity on the court. You don’t have enough intensity.”
“It’s too flat. You’ve got to lighten up a little bit, put some power into it.”
Sabalenka, visibly trying to suppress laughter, retorted: “Really! That’s what you are going to say right now?”
She added, “Before this guy was my favourite player, but not anymore, obviously!”
Djokovic`s slightly blunt feedback might resonate given Sabalenka`s recent performance in the French Open final against Coco Gauff. The Belarusian later stated it “hurt to show such terrible tennis,” describing it as “the worst final I ever played” after her three-set loss to Gauff.
In her speech as runner-up, the three-time Grand Slam champion commented: “I think she won the match not because she played incredible, just because I made all of those mistakes.”
Meanwhile, Djokovic is seeking his 25th Grand Slam title, which would extend his record. At 38, he is aware that time is a factor, especially with the emergence of younger competitors like Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner.
The legendary Serbian shared his feelings about the tournament: “It’s great to be back. I love Wimbledon. I’ve always loved it. In the last six editions, I reached six finals.”
“I’ve been playing very well here; it’s arguably been my most consistent Grand Slam over the past decade.”
He added, “When I come here, I feel extra inspired to deliver my best tennis. Whether it could be my ‘last dance,’ I’m not sure. My desire is to continue playing for several more years.”
“I would love to be healthy physically and also mentally motivated to keep on playing at the highest level. That’s the objective, but you can never be certain at this point.”
