Djokovic sends classy message to Zverev after Australian Open final defeat

Novak Djokovic expressed his heartfelt assist for Alexander Zverev after the world No. 2 misplaced the Australian Open closing.

Zverev had made it to the championship match when Djokovic was pressured to retire from their semi-final because of damage. Regardless of this, Djokovic had been rooting for Zverev to assert his first Grand Slam title.

Nevertheless, Jannik Sinner dashed these hopes by defending his crown in Melbourne with a 6-3 7-6(4) 6-3 victory. Following the match, Djokovic took to social media to encourage Zverev, assuring him that he has what it takes to win certainly one of tennis’ greatest titles.

After their semi-final conflict, Zverev expressed gratitude for Djokovic’s assist: “Which means quite a bit to me, particularly from Novak, I feel, who I like and respect a lot,” he shared on Friday.

“Yeah, as I mentioned, I am wanting ahead to Sunday. I do really feel like I’ve carried out the work, and I do really feel like I am prepared for it. So we’ll see the way it goes.”

Nevertheless, his tone shifted following a straight-set defeat within the closing, the place he admitted candidly: “Generally, Jannik is healthier than me in the mean time. It is so simple as that.

“I feel I served higher than Jannik, and every part else he does higher. So on the finish of the day he deserves to win. He is one of the best participant on laborious courts proper now. It is so simple as that.”

The loss to Sinner is Zverev’s third in Slam finals however Djokovic assured him he’ll quickly get his palms on one of many greatest prizes within the sport.

Alongside a photograph of the 2 finalists, Djokovic wrote on Instagram: “Sasha, preserve believing my pal! You could have IT in you.” He additionally congratulated Sinner on his success.

Do not miss

Djokovic’s feedback echoed these made by Sinner, who backed Zverev to finish his trophy drought in his post-tournament speech.

He mentioned: “Once more a troublesome day for you, your entire crew, your loved ones. You might be a tremendous participant. Maintain believing in your self.

“Everyone knows how sturdy you might be as a participant and particular person. Stick with it and preserve working laborious as a result of all of us imagine you possibly can win certainly one of these quickly. I want you all one of the best.”