George Russell chooses Roger Federer over Novak Djokovic right before watching the Serb in action

F1 star George Russell lauds Federer as his idol prior to witnessing Djokovic at the Monte Carlo Masters

George Russell chooses Roger Federer over Novak Djokovic right before watching the Serb in action

After Charles Leclerc‘s appearance in the stands, F1 star George Russell also attended the Monte Carlo Masters tennis. The Brit showed up to cheer for Novak Djokovic in his tournament-opening match. As an avid tennis fan, it was Russell’s first time watching the Serb live. Russell also met the Serb after the match.

Djokovic, however, faced considerable opposition, especially given the fact he was playing on clay — his least preferred surface. The World No.1 struggled through the first set but eventually came out on top. Russell, on the other hand, claimed that Roger Federer was his childhood idol, just prior to Djokovic’s game against qualifier, Ivan Gakhov.

YouTube video

The Mercedes driver claimed he watched tennis as a child and usually kept track of Federer’s accomplishments. He was even present at the Laver Cup, where Federer hung his racquet to signal retirement, officially. At the Spanish Grand Prix last year, it was the 41-year-old who met with Russell.

FS Video

Djokovic, who had not played any tournament for the past few weeks, staggered past Gakhov into the Round of 16. The two-time champion at the event hopes to clinch his third title in Monte Carlo. Before heading to watch Djokovic play, Russell stated, “I really enjoy watching tennis. I always watch the big games. I think Roger was always the one who I followed the most”.

“…I don’t think I’ve seen Djokovic play before so I’m excited to see him in action,” added the 24-year-old. Despite his obvious excitement, it is Federer whom Russell deems his childhood idol. Afterward, Russell also posted a picture with the Serb as well, thanking him for their chat. The No.1 will compete in the third round on Thursday meanwhile, Russell will gear up for his next race in Baku.

Also read: Novak Djokovic’s ’22’ jacket to commemorate historic Australian Open win makes a return

Novak Djokovic to face Lorenzo Musseti in fourth round of the Monte Carlo Masters

IMG COM 20230412 2026 09 4972
(Credit:Twitter)

No.1 seed, Djokovic will face sixteenth seed, Lorenzo Musetti in the Round of 16 of the Monte Carlo Masters. Djokovic competed against Gakhov after a first-round bye, and the Russian did not go easy against the Serb. Djokovic finally gained the upper hand in the second set, to defeat the qualifier. Musetti, on the other hand, reached the third round in Monte Carlo for the second time.

The duo have faced each other thrice, with the 35-year-old leading the head-to-head count, 3-0. Djokovic will most likely not face any difficulty in competing against the youngster. The Serb has had a gleaming record this season, as he has lost only one match yet, as well as won a record-breaking 10th Australian Open title.

In case you missed it: