"I was not afraid to say I want to be the best player in the world": Novak Djokovic reveals Roger Federer bombshell after Etcheverry win

Friday, 19 January 2024 at 20:30

Novak Djokovic revealed after winning his R3 match against Etcheverry in his press conference that Roger Federer was not pleased with his behaviors when he arrived on the ATP Tour. 'Nole's' personality has always divided fans, and from the beginning of his career, he expressed his desire to surpass the best in the world, at that time, Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer.

'Nole' made a breakthrough at the 2008 Australian Open with his first Grand Slam title, defeating the reigning No. 1 Roger Federer in the semifinals without dropping a set. Djokovic was asked in a press conference if any older tennis player gave him advice or if his expressive personality bothered others at the beginning of his career.

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"I know certainly Federer didn't like the way I was behaving at the beginning. I think it didn't sit with him well. I don't know about the others. I guess I wasn't the favorite type of guy to some of the top guys because I was not afraid to say that I want to be the best player in the world,” Djokovic stated.

I was confident, and I felt like I have the game to back it up. I never, ever lacked respect. Whenever I start a match, before the match or finish the match, I would always greet the opponent, always acknowledge. Respect is something that I was taught that needs to be present regardless of what is happening," 24-times Grand Slam champion added.

Federer-Djokovic rivalry

Although their rivalry against Nadal is often more remembered, Djokovic and Federer have the second-most repeated match in the history of tennis, with 50 encounters and a record of 27-23 in favor of 'Nole'. In Grand Slam finals, the Serbian leads 3-1.

While Federer amassed 20 Grand Slam titles and broke Pete Sampras's historical record of 14 titles at Wimbledon in 2009, Djokovic only had the trophy from the 2008 Australian Open at that time. The Serbian surpassed 'Fed' at the same venue 13 years later at SW19. As of now, Djokovic has 24 titles and is still active with good chances to increase his record.

Press Conference Djokovic after AO2024 R3 talking about Federer & Nadal

Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist

Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.

His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.

In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.

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