SUMMARY
- Novak Djokovic is chasing a record 11th title in Melbourne this year.
- Djokovic revealed the special connection he has with a tree.
Serbian star Novak Djokovic is eyeing a record 11th title at the Australian Open this year. Djokovic has already successfully launched his defense of the title. However, Melbourne is not just special for his incredible achievements as a player. Beyond the confines of the tennis court, the city holds something particularly significant to him.
Djokovic has a bit of a contentious relationship with Australia, especially after the COVID-19 vaccine controversy. While he may not have the best relationship with the Australian fans, he opened up about a “special relationship.”
Novak took on Alexei Popyrin in the second-round encounter at the Rod Laver Arena. The match had many memorable moments and some drama too, especially when Djokovic confronted a heckler. Following his victory over Popyrin, he opened up about a connection he developed with a certain tree at the Melbourne Botanical Gardens. He mentioned that he keeps returning to the spot whenever he is in the city.
This is apparently Djokovic’s favourite tree: pic.twitter.com/KNG9Y3CsCv
— Mostafa Rachwani (@Rachwani91) January 18, 2024
“There’s one particular tree that I’ve been having [a] special relationship with, so to say, in the last 15 years. I got connected with that tree. I just liked it. I liked its roots, the trunks and branches and everything. So I started climbing it years ago. That’s it. I just have a connection,” he said (via The Guardian).
Djokovic further added that the tree helps him feel grounded. While he did not want to divulge the location, he did share a photo with his friend on Instagram in 2016.
Novak Djokovic has looked far from his best at the Australian Open this year. He will try to consolidate his position when he takes on Tomas Martin Etcheverry next.
Novak Djokovic vs. Tomas Martin Etcheverry match preview
The Serb is one of the favorites to win the title this year again, even though he looks a little rusty. Djokovic also played his longest first-round match at a major tournament against Dino Prizmic in the first round. His match against Tomas will be very different, as the player is known for causing great upsets.
Etcheverry has been in remarkable form at the Australian Open this year. He knocked out both Andy Murray and Gael Monfils in straight sets to make it to the third round. And now he stands to face his idol, Novak.
The two locked horns twice before this, both of their matches being played in 2023. Novak easily won both of them, leading their head-to-head 2-0.
Can Novak Djokovic continue his dominant run of form at the Australian Open, or is an upset on the cards? Tune in to watch the match on January 19.