LONDON — Novak Djokovic shared some playful advice with the world’s top-ranked Aryna Sabalenka at Wimbledon on Saturday during an unexpected yet amusing visit to her press conference.
In preparation for the renowned grass-court Grand Slam, Djokovic and Sabalenka had spent a portion of the week practicing together at the All England Club. Djokovic, a seven-time Wimbledon victor, humorously interrupted the conclusion of Sabalenka’s media session by encouraging her to speed things up so he could take his turn at the podium.
Turning the tables, Sabalenka assumed the role of the interviewer, curious about Djokovic’s thoughts on their practice. She jokingly queried, “What did you think about playing with me? How do you assess my level? Am I doing well?”
Djokovic, boasting an impressive 24 Grand Slam titles, responded with a quick-witted remark. “I think you have great potential. You’re a very talented player,” he affirmed before adding lighthearted criticism. Known for her powerful playing style, Sabalenka took it in stride as Djokovic teased her.
“Let me be honest. You’re lacking intensity out there,” Djokovic said, prompting a wave of laughter. “It’s too flat. You need to lighten up a bit and add some power to your game.”
This wasn’t the first time Djokovic has been involved in such antics. Back in 2011 at the same venue, a similar scenario unfolded when then-world No. 2 Djokovic was at the press conference, and top-ranked Caroline Wozniacki playfully took over, posing various questions to him.
That year, Djokovic emerged victorious with his inaugural Wimbledon title, while Wozniacki’s journey ended in the fourth round.
On the opening days of this year’s tournament, Djokovic is set to launch his campaign for an eighth Wimbledon crown against France’s Alexandre Muller on Tuesday. Meanwhile, Sabalenka will face Carson Branstine on Monday, eager to demonstrate the intensity Djokovic jestingly suggested she lacked.