Djokovic's Off-Season Coaching Move and Farewell Matches
Tennis with a Touch of Goodwill
Djokovic's hard work with Andy Murray is about to commence. Currently, he is in Argentina for a farewell match with Juan Martin del Potro. This act of kindness by Djokovic, as noted by Jon Wertheim on X, "In happier, non-doping tennis news: that Djokovic is spending this weekend in Argentina – at age 37; in the sparse off-season; as he gears up for Australian with a new coaching situation – making sure Del Potro gets the send-off he deserves….speaks volumes and speaks so well of both players…." Tennis fans have been highly impressed. One fan wrote, "Exactly. Class act. Delpo x Novak is always a pleasure!" and another said, "Mad respect for Novak. I might not be his biggest fan, but he’s doing a wonderful thing."
Another commented, "Plus Delpo had some very crucial wins against Nole. The friendship and respect is what mattered most." And a grateful tennis fan added, "The greatest players in my book, Novak for all that he achieved in his career and for the man he is, and Delpo, the most loved player ever, the Tower of Tandil. I don’t know one single tennis fan that doesn’t like this kind giant. Best duo."
The Head-to-Head Rivalry
Djokovic and Del Potro clearly share a mutual respect, a sentiment often seen between sporting greats. The Argentine, a 22-time tour-level winner and former world number three, has always found it tough against Djokovic. With a 16-4 head-to-head record over his old rival, Djokovic has dominated their meetings. Here is a look at their last five matches on the ATP Tour:
Year | Winner | Tournament | Round | Surface
2019 | Novak Djokovic | ATP Masters 1000 Rome | Quarter-final | Outdoor Clay
2018 | Novak Djokovic | US Open | Final | Outdoor Hard
2017 | Novak Djokovic | ATP Masters 1000 Rome | Quarter-final | Outdoor Clay
2017 | Novak Djokovic | ATP Masters 1000 Indian Wells | Round of 32 | Outdoor Hard
2017 | Novak Djokovic | Acapulco | Round of 16 | Outdoor Hard
