Novak Djokovic has been growing in confidence through each stage at Wimbledon. He has been unbeatable at the event since 2018, and it looks as if the streak will continue hassle-free. The seven-time champion at the event has only dropped two sets so far in the last five matches. The semifinals will start on the 14th, as two quarterfinal matchups are still left.
Djokovic has played four different players in the last four finals at Wimbledon. Last year, he played in the final against Nick Kyrgios and came back from a set down to take the trophy. It was the first major final for Kyrgios, and he could not match the Serbian’s momentum. Even though he had a good start, Djokovic made sure there was no further delay in the proceedings.
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Djokovic had put up a post on Instagram after his quarterfinal victory saying that he was ready for the semifinals. A few hours after he posted, Kyrgios commented, “GO WIN IT BIG DAWG,” which went viral. Both players have shared a good bond off and on the court, as was visible in last year’s final too. Djokovic will be thankful for the much-needed support from his friend.
The rollercoaster friendship of Nick Kyrgios and Novak Djokovic
Both players did not have a good start to their friendship. Kyrgios had publicly criticized Djokovic in 2019 in a podcast, saying that he couldn’t stand the former world No. 1. He also publicly expressed that he wants Roger Federer to win the 2019 Wimbledon final. Djokovic did not hit back but just said that he did not understand the motive behind all this. Even the Adria tour was not welcomed by Kyrgios.
But it all changed last year, as the 28-year-old publicly expressed his support during last year’s Australian Open controversy. While Djokovic was deported back to Serbia, he expressed his gratitude towards the world No. 33.
He said that Kyrgios spoke with him during the controversy and backed him up. Djokovic said that his support meant so much to him during the tough time. Both were even planning to play doubles at Indian Wells last year.
Since then, it has all been good between both players. Kyrgios exited Wimbledon unexpectedly this year due to a wrist injury. The Australian also played an exhibition match against Djokovic on his return to Melbourne this year. Djokovic will be counting on his friend’s wishes as he enters the court again for a place in the final.
