Novak Djokovic believes his children have a say in his post-match celebrations following his victory over Gael Monfils
Novak Djokovic defeated Gael Monfils in straight sets to extend his head-to-head record against the Frenchman to 20-0.
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Novak Djokovic and his children Stefan and Tara (via X)
For over two decades, Novak Djokovic has proven to be an unstoppable force in the ATP. The Serbian once again showcased world-class tennis to defeat Gael Monfils for the twentieth time in his career. Also, he didn’t leave the court without a post-match celebration for his children.
Djokovic has looked impressive since arriving at the Brisbane International. The 37-year-old dispatched Australian Rinky Hijikata in the first round with a straight-set victory. On Thursday (January 2), he continued with the momentum against Monfils, claiming the first-set win with ease.
Monfils began the second set better than the first but that was not enough to defeat a very experienced Djokovic. The Serbian needed just one hour and 12 minutes to defeat the French legend 6-3, 6-3. After the victory, Djokovic came with his traditional celebration of playing the violin with his racket which he revealed at the Wimbledon last year that it was for his daughter Tara.
But it wasn’t just the violin he imitated; there was a saxophone, too, which he did for his son, Stefan. During his on-court interview, he was asked about the celebration, and he revealed that he incorporated both because they were present on the courtside.
My children told me to have two different kinds of celebrations. My daughter told me to keep going with the violin if I won. My son told me to play the saxophone, so I try and incorporate both. It is the first time for me to have my family down under. It is a long trip, but they have come to support me, and we are spending a lot of quality time together off the court. My heart is full and it allows me to play my best tennis.
Novak Djokovic said via ATP
However, Djokovic’s first victory over Monfils came in the 2005 US Open, nineteen years on, and this week, he is yet to lose to the Frenchman. He now has a mind-blowing 20-0 head-to-head record lead against the French legend.
Novak Djokovic aiming to win his 100th career title in Brisbane International
Novak Djokovic will be joined by new coach Andy Murray at the Australian Open in Melbourne. The British legend didn’t follow the Serbian as he went on skiing with his family. However, Murray will be really pleased with his performance in Brisbane, as the 37-year-old is set to take Reilly Opelka in the quarterfinals on Friday (January 3).
Nonetheless, Djokovic is now the pole favorite to win the title. The former World No.1 is seeking his 100th career title in Brisbane and has revealed that he’s aiming to lift the tournament title.
I’ve never won the Brisbane International. It’s true. Hopefully this is the year. That’s why I’m here, I’ve played here a couple times, I think I played a tournament a long time ago, back in 2009, and I played with the Serbian team in the ATP Cup four or five years ago.
Novak Djokovic said
Djokovic is also aiming to be in his best form ahead of the Australian Open, which starts on January 12. The Serbian has won the Melbourne Grand Slam ten times in his career and is seeking to add another to the tally.
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Victor Okechukwu
(691 Articles Published)