SUMMARY
- Novak Djokovic was present during the Denver Nuggets and the LA Lakers match.
- Novak Djokovic shared friendly moments with Nikola Jokic in the Crypto.com Arena.
Novak Djokovic has taken a short hiatus from the ATP tour and has been preparing for a comeback this month. Although not seen on the court, Djokovic was seen enjoying an NBA game. He was present during the match between the Denver Nuggets and the LA Lakers. Djokovic even shared a moment with Nikola Jokic during the game.
The world No.1 was seen hugging Jokic. As it was between the match, Jokic was a bit hesitant to give a hug as he was sweating. According to a Serbian-speaking fan, Jokic apparently said, “I’m really sweaty” to which Djokovic replied, “Oh c’mon, gimme love, Nikola!.” The fans cheered when they both hugged each other. Jokic talked about how Djokovic was an inspiration to all.
“I’m really sweaty.”
“Oh c’mon, gimme love, Nikola!”
(but in Serbian)
— PoissonDistribution (@PoissonianDist) March 3, 2024
Serbian Legends 🇷🇸
Novak Djokovic 🤝 Nikola Jokic #NBACelebRow
— Bayo (@BayoCTID) March 3, 2024
Djokovic and Jokic’s team members had received a hero’s welcome in Belgrade six months ago. Jokic said, “He is a guy who represents Serbia in a much bigger scene. He’s a Serbian ambassador, and he’s really an idol to the kids in Serbia and not just on the court, but with the things that his foundation is doing.” The 29-year-old mentioned that he wants to become like Djokovic.
World legends! The best active players in their sports ! #jokers
— GOAT (@gnomomorales) March 3, 2024
Jokic has been regarded as one of the best centers in the sport of all time. He was part of the Serbian team, which won the silver medal at the 2016 Rio Olympics. Jokic also played a major role in the 2023 FIBA World Cup, where Serbia lost in the final. The Serbian was certainly in his best form as Djokovic watched him steer the match away from the LA Lakers.
Novak Djokovic arrives in grand fashion during a historic night in Los Angeles
The Crypto.com Arena saw Djokovic witnessing multiple milestones of the NBA during the match between the Denver Nuggets and the LA Lakers. The 36-year-old arrived with a black jacket, white tee, black trousers, and white sneakers. He wore the $29,000 worth Audemars Piguet as the chronograph watch is powered by an automatic calibre 4401 movement with 70 hours of reserve time.
Djokovic saw his fellow countryman, Jokic, score 35 points and ten rebounds. While the LA Lakers lost the game, LeBron James became the first player in league history to score 40,000 career points. James scored 26 points with four rebounds and nine assists. Djokovic watched history unfolding right in front of him. He was seen excited to be an audience in the match.
Novak Djokovic dressed like he’s about to sell you some jewelry pic.twitter.com/jOrxJPwste
— The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) March 3, 2024
Djokovic is now expected to play in Indian Wells next, as he did not play in any events in February. He has been mentally prepared since the loss in the semifinals of the Australian Open. Djokovic will have gained motivation after watching Jokic dominate his opponents.