Christopher McDonald, famously known for portraying the villainous ‘Shooter McGavin’ in the 1996 comedy Happy Gilmore, has issued a playful challenge to tennis legend, Novak Djokovic. McDonald, whose acting career spans various roles in both film and television, including notable performances in Grease 2 and Thelma & Louise, took to social media to taunt Djokovic, sharing a video of himself on a tennis court.
In the video captioned, “You have been warned @DjokerNole,” McDonald humorously calls out the Serbian star, stating, “All right Djoker, Shooter McGavin [this side]. Here I am playing tennis now so you better watch out.”
In a light-hearted tone, McDonald acknowledges Djokovic’s prowess, and expresses admiration as a fan, but playfully warns him to be prepared for a new challenge now that he’s entered the game. He further exclaims This is a professional’s game, you have done very well. I am a big fan [of yours] blah blah. But now that I am in the game watch out!!”
You’ve been warned @DjokerNole pic.twitter.com/S4OFEKPvif
— Shooter McGavin (@ShooterMcGavin_) March 6, 2024
Responding in good spirits, Novak Djokovic shared a photo of himself in a golfing pose with the caption, “Challenge accepted.” The exchange between the two celebrities sparked excitement and curiosity among their respective fans, with many eagerly speculating the outcome of this unexpected tennis face-off.
Challenge accepted 😂 https://t.co/z4xbiszRJD pic.twitter.com/3B2sSVXP0A
— Novak Djokovic (@DjokerNole) March 7, 2024
The banter between McDonald and Djokovic highlights the camaraderie and mutual respect shared among athletes and entertainers from different worlds. As the anticipation builds, fans eagerly await the friendly competition between the tennis legend and the iconic Hollywood villain turned amateur tennis player.
Novak Djokovic to meet world no. 69 in his opening round at Indian Wells Masters
Novak Djokovic stands on the verge of making his long-awaited return to Indian Wells, a tournament where he has triumphed an impressive five times – claiming the title in 2008, 2011, 2014, 2015, and 2016. Eagerly anticipating his comeback to the hallowed grounds of ‘Tennis Paradise,’ the world No. 1, has been brimming with excitement to play in the ATP 1000 Masters tournament.
Set to kick off his campaign this week, Djokovic is slated to go head-to-head against Australia’s Aleksandar Vukic, marking their inaugural clash on the court. Ranked at No. 69 in the world, Vukic could pose some resistance for Djokovic in the opening round, promising an enthralling encounter amidst the scenic backdrop of Indian Wells.
Novak Djokovic’s Indian Wells draw:
Round 1: Bye
Round 2: 🇦🇺Vukic
Round 3:🇦🇷 Etcheverry
Round 4:🇫🇷Humbert/🇺🇸Paul
Quarterfinal: 🇵🇱Hurkacz/🇳🇴Ruud
Semifinal: 🇷🇺Medvedev/🇩🇰Rune/🇺🇸Fritz
Final: 🇪🇸Alcaraz/🇮🇹Sinner/🇩🇪Zverev/🇷🇺Rublev/🇬🇷Tsitsipas pic.twitter.com/SiNZtuOQtp— Danny 🐊 (@DjokovicFan_) March 5, 2024
Despite Vukic’s recent struggles and modest track record in 2024, including a lone victory at Indian Wells in Round of 128, the match presents an enticing opportunity for Djokovic to get into the winning groove and reaffirm his dominance after the Australian Open debacle. As spectators eagerly the showdown, anticipation mounts to see Djokovic for the first time in action since 2019 in Indian Wells.