Novak Djokovic is widely regarded as the greatest tennis player of all time, and his reputation certainly precedes him.
And, for whatever reason, his stock in Asia is arguably where it is at its highest.
China in particular has been a happy hunting ground for the 39-year-old throughout his career, and upon his return this week, that form has remained despite a couple of hard-fought results.
Speaking after his latest win, he actually referenced that fanfare, as the China Open crowd shockingly pulled for him throughout his match despite facing a Chinese opponent.
Novak Djokovic shocked as China Open crowd support him over his Chinese opponent
Chatting with Tennis TV, just after Novak Djokovic had praised his opponent Yunchaokete Bu for a great match, he reiterated those comments whilst discussing the conditions.
Asked just how well he felt he had to play to turn the match around, he admitted: “Well, I had to play very well. I had to serve well in the right moment. It was quite a breeze from one end of the court. I played easier with wind in your back than wind facing you, so I think most of the breaks came, actually, from the side, where you played with the wind.
Pick a sport you want Novak Djokovic to play when he retires from tennis!
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“I mean, he was so solid. You know, I struggled to really find holes in his game. He was hitting his spots incredibly well with the serve and serve plus one, and he was mixing things up really well in the rallies, you know, from back on the court, with some short slices coming in, making me come in as well.
“So, credit to him for playing well. The atmosphere was amazing. Packed stadium again, three hours, almost midnight. What a match to be a part of.”
Then, speaking about the Chinese crowd cheering for him louder than the Chinese player, he added: “Yeah, I mean… I have to pinch myself.
“You know, I honestly did not expect that, you know, especially playing against a Chinese player. So I’m very, very thankful. Honestly, I don’t know what to say except that I’m very thankful to them and try to give them back with good performance on the court.”
Djokovic had been surprised by the China Open crowd in his first-round match, but this was another level of support, preferring him to their own hometown hero. That only proves how legendary he remains.
Yunchaokete Bu also spoke about Djokovic getting more support than him, but seemed accepting of it: “The number of Grand Slams he has won, he is No. 1 in history. Of course he deserves respect.
“I thought he deserved this.”
