Novak Djokovic demonstrated his exceptional skill and sportsmanship by honoring Dino Prizmic following his victory against the 18-year-old qualifier in a remarkable four-hour and two-minute match at the Australian Open. The adolescent participated in his inaugural Grand Slam main draw and managed to win a set against the 10-time champion, resulting in the longest first-round Grand Slam encounter of Djokovic’s professional career. Following his victory with a score of 6-2 6-7(5) 6-3 6-4, the top-ranked player in the world expressed his willingness to join Prizmic’s support team, expressing his desire to be a part of the Croatian player’s entourage for the entirety of his professional career.
Prizmic had a notable debut on a prominent sporting platform by challenging Djokovic, one of the most accomplished champions, on his most triumphant court. In his debut Grand Slam encounter, the player ranked 178th in the world managed to win a set against the 10-time champion. Throughout the match, he consistently posed a danger to the top seed, breaking his serve many times and saving six match points. However, he ultimately lost to the top seed.
Despite emerging as the victor, Djokovic acknowledged that the spotlight belonged to Prizmic. He deliberately shifted the attention onto his opponent, gesturing towards the 18-year-old and urging him to rise and bask in the ovation from the audience at Rod Laver Arena. The qualifier had garnered a substantial following with his exceptional performance, and the 24-time Grand Slam champion openly acknowledged that he was among them — requesting an invitation to join Prizmic’s team.
“He deserves all the applause and credit he received tonight.” He is an exceptional player, I must admit. “He displayed remarkable maturity for his age and exhibited exceptional composure on the court,” Djokovic commented following the match. “This is his moment, truthfully it could have equally been his victory as well.” He had a lead in the third set, and he continued to fight. Despite being at a disadvantage of 4-0 and facing a break point for a score of 5-0, he displayed determination and resilience.
The decuple Australian Open champion enumerated a series of aspects he admired about Prizmic’s game, acknowledging his intention to provide further elaboration at a later time. He continued: “He displayed exceptional mental fortitude and perseverance.” This evening, I faced a significant challenge that required considerable effort and resources. Frankly, I have numerous commendations and accolades for him. I will address this matter during the upcoming press conference, likely with the intention of analyzing and dissecting his gameplay.
“However, I admire his ability to utilize the entire playing area, his confidence in approaching the net, and his exceptional defensive skills.” An exceptional display of talent from a someone who is merely 18 years of age and without prior exposure to performing on a grand platform. He deserves great praise, along with his staff and family.
Djokovic expressed his desire to provide assistance to Prizmic in his next matches, stating, “I am eager to support him and be part of his team, as he is poised to achieve significant accomplishments.” Undoubtedly. We can expect to encounter him frequently in the future.
Upon scrutinizing his own performance, Djokovic was astonished to see the youthfulness of his opponent. “I initially performed exceptionally for a man of 36 years,” he stated, abruptly interrupting himself. “Indeed, upon reflection, I am twice as old as him.” “The harsh reality sets in tonight,” he chuckled.
Djokovic felt confident in Prizmic’s potential as a future champion, and he also had the presence of Andre Agassi, a former champion, observing from the spectator area. Djokovic, who has won eight Major tournaments, admitted that he was previously trained by the tennis legend and was easily sidetracked by him.
Speaking to the American individual, the top-ranked individual in the world expressed their astonishment at seeing them, as it had been some years since their last encounter. In fact, the score was 4-0 and deuce when I hit a forehand winner. I smiled at you and remarked that it resembled your return. Subsequently, I experienced a consecutive loss of three games. The responsibility lies with me, not with you. I became distracted, yet your presence served as a source of inspiration and motivated me to observe you.