Novak Djokovic pays tribute to almost-compatriot Nikola Karabatic’s heroics to get his team across the line in a historic ending

Nikola Karabatic is a three time Olympic Gold medal winner and is regarded as a legend of handball.

Novak Djokovic pays tribute to almost-compatriot Nikola Karabatic’s heroics to get his team across the line in a historic ending

L: Nikola Karabatic; R: Novak Djokovic with his wife (Via Imago)

While Roland Garros has been the center of attraction for the French crowd, another sport has been gaining immense views in the country- Handball. Almost 14,840 people were in attendance as the Handball champion Nikola Karabatic played his last match for his club, Paris Saint-Germain, at the Accor Arena in Paris. 

The Handball pro has played over 1000 matches in his career and it was time for his last ever one. Many recognized athletes were in attendance to bid adieu to the legend of the sport. Among them was the 24-time tennis Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic. 

YouTube video

The Serbian, who is seen appreciating almost every sport, was present at this occasion as well to support his compatriot-like player. Karabatic was half Serbian, making him close to a compatriot for Djokovic. It was a perfect ending for the handball champion, who got to lift the 11th title for Paris on Friday. 

FS Video

The match got to an interesting stage, but it was PSG, who pulled off a historic win at the Accor Arena. There was absolutely nothing that could have spoiled Karabatic’s jubilee, as his team won 39-36 against Pays d’Aix Universite Club. 

Novak Djokovic's Instagram story hailing PSG and Nikola Karabatic
Novak Djokovic’s Instagram story hailing PSG and Nikola Karabatic (Via screengrab)

Djokovic captured some glimpses of his experience from the game on his Instagram story as well. Hailing Nikola Karabatic as a GOAT, the Serbian put up a story of PSG celebrating, followed by a picture alongside his almost compatriot. 

Novak Djokovic cruises past round two at the French Open

Serbian ace Novak Djokovic has had a rather forgetful season so far. Even he recently agreed of unable to find the motivation to win, which is usually what gives him the edge over other players. 

Novak Djokovic Roland Garros
Novak Djokovic (Via Imago)

However, it seems like the Serbian is slowly heading in the right direction after two dominating wins at the Slam. Although he got off to a slow start in both matches, he still managed to pull it back and emerge victorious in straight sets. 

I’m being very conscious of the present moment and what needs to be done on a daily basis to build my form as the tournament progresses. 
Novak Djokovic said via Roland Garros Press

The World No. 1 will now play Italy’s Lorenzo Musetti in the third round. A familiar opponent for the Serbian, who faced him in Monte Carlo. Djokovic had won that match in straight sets, giving him a 4-1 lead in their head-to-head. 

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