Novak Djokovic has praised rival Roger Federer following his run to the Australian Open title in Melbourne.
Federer, who was playing in his first competitive tournament since the Wimbledon Championships due to injury, defeated four top 10 players in Melbourne to clinch a record 18th grand slam title. At the tournament, the 35-year-old produced wins over Tomas Berdych, Kei Nishikori, Stan Wawrinka and Rafael Nadal.
The triumph is one that has earned the admiration of Djokovic, who crashed out in the second round at the first grand slam of the year to Denis Istomin. The world No.2 has since returned back to his home country to participate in Serbia’s upcoming Davis Cup tie against Russia. During his Davis Cup press commitments, Djokovic paid tribute to Federer.
“I am not surprised that Federer won the title because you can always expect him to play at the highest level when he is fit.” Said Djokovic.
“He was sidelined by injury for six months, but having entered the tournament fresh and fit, he played outstanding tennis and I can only congratulate him.”
Djokovic also spoke highly about Nadal’s performance in what was his 35th clash against the Swiss player on the tour. The Serbian, who has played both players more than 40 times throughout his career, hailed the latest development in the men’s tour as ‘a massive boost’ for the sport.
“The final between him and Nadal was one of the sports hallmarks of the year, going beyond tennis itself, as it’s been one of the greatest rivalries of all time. Nadal, too, played very well and they both showed why they are great champions on and off the court. It was a massive boost for tennis any way you look at it.”
This weekend, Djokovic will be the only top 10 player participating in the Davis Cup. Serbia is bidding to win their second Davis Cup after 2010 and will host Russia at the Sportski Centar Cair in Nis.
“Russia are a young and motivated team and we must not underestimate them under any circumstances. I have never played here in Nis but I heard that it’s a great atmosphere so I am looking forward to it.” The world No.2 said of playing Russia.
The atmosphere of the tie has been boosted with the presence of the 14-time grand slam champion. According to the Davis Cup, ticket for the event was sold out within the first 15 minutes.
Serbia will be captained by doubles specialist Nenad Zimonjic, who takes over from Bogdan Obradovic. This season the 40-year-old will conduct a player-captain role before formally ending his Davis Cup playing career at the end of the year.
