Novak Djokovic, the world no. 1, is currently training in Dubai for the upcoming 2024 season. He took some time off from his rigorous training schedule to fulfill the wish of a young 13-year-old boy who wanted to play with the legend. It was an extraordinary gesture from the Serbian tennis star.
In a heartening moment, Djokovic shared the court with a 13-year-old named Timur Gordeev. A video of their practice session was posted on social media with the caption, “Djokovic training in Dubai with a 13-year-old Timur Gordeev.” The video showed a few points played between the two, and Djokovic lost most of those points.
Djokovic training in Dubai with a 13 year old Timur Gordeev
byu/jovanmilic97 intennis
While fans responded with some hilarious reactions, others were appreciative too. One fan expressed the genuine connection players like Djokovic make with young tennis enthusiasts, drawing a parallel to Agassi’s experience with Björn Borg.
Someone playfully remarked, “He is raising his hope only to crush him later…” While another fan humorously exclaimed, “Another generation to destroy.” A more visionary fan even speculated jokingly, “2028 Olympics final right here.”
Timur Gordeev, the 13-year-old who had the opportunity to play with Djokovic, also expressed his gratitude on social media. He shared an emotional message, thanking Djokovic for the chance to hit with him and expressing his admiration for Djokovic’s legendary status on and off the court. The skills of the young boy would have surely reminded Djokovic of his childhood playing days.
Novak Djokovic vs. Carlos Alcaraz headlines the Riyadh Season Tennis Cup exhibition event
In a tennis spectacle set to be witnessed during the Riyadh Season Tennis Cup from December 26 to 27, all eyes will be on the much-anticipated clash between Novak Djokovic and Carlos Alcaraz. Djokovic, recognized as the greatest men’s tennis player with an impressive record of 24 Grand Slam titles, is a formidable force on the court, currently being the world no. 1.
On the other side, the new generation star, the 20-year-old Carlos Alcaraz, and the current world no. 2 bring their brand of diminutive tennis to the court, having secured two Grand Slam victories. The Kingdom Arena, a spectacular marvel equipped with cutting-edge technology, will play host to this captivating match-up.
A call for tennis lovers 🔥#RiyadhSeason Tennis Cup 🎾
With the presence of tennis stars
Novak Djokovic, Carlos Alcaraz, Aryana Sabalenka and Ons Jabeur 🔥December 26 – 27 🗓️#BigTime
— موسم الرياض | Riyadh Season (@RiyadhSeason) October 19, 2023
Constructed in an astonishing 60 days, the arena can accommodate over 40,000 spectators, underscoring its suitability for international events. It recently hosted an international boxing bout on October 28, adding to its credibility.
While the Djokovic-Alcaraz faceoff takes center stage, the Riyadh Season Tennis Cup will also feature other exciting matches, including a women’s encounter between Aryna Sabalenka and Ons Jabeur. Riyadh Season, an annual winter extravaganza, has become synonymous with a top-tier entertainment destination. Since its inception in 2019, the festival has drawn visitors from around the globe, ranging from concerts to sporting events.