Djokovic's playful tease: Federer, the 'old man' of tennis

Serbia’s legendary tennis star Novak Djokovic has teased former world number one Roger Federer as an ‘old man’ as the two reunited at the Shanghai Masters. The ATP 1000 event is approaching a conclusion, as the remaining players are giving their all to secure the ultimate prize.

Former world number one Federer, who retired from the sport in 2022 after struggling with form and fitness concerns, returned to the court after a gap of more than two years as he played an exhibition match. Djokovic teased his former rival in a video that appeared on social media appearance as the two met in the players' arena during the event. The Serb called him an ‘old man’.

Both players have had a fantastic rivalry in the past. The two players met 50 times in professional tennis, and Djokovic had a slight advantage with 27 wins and 23 defeats. The last meeting between the two took place in the Australian Open in 2020, and the Belgrade-born star came out on top in straight sets with a score of 7-6, 6-4, 6-3.

Federer finished his playing career with 20 Grand Slam titles to his name. He was the first-ever player to win more than 15 major titles in the history of men’s tennis in the singles category in the Open era. He was also the first to win 20 Grand Slam titles in the men’s singles category.

On the other hand, Djokovic, who is still playing at the highest level, is regarded as the greatest player in the history of men’s tennis in the singles category. He has won 24 Grand Slam titles in his illustrious career. The 37-year-old is currently taking part in the Shanghai Masters, where he booked his place in the semifinal after beating Jakub Mensik with a score of 6-7, 6-1, 6-4. He will face America’s Taylor Fritz, who cemented his spot in the last-four after beating Belgium’s David Goffin in straight sets with a score of 6-3, 6-4.