"Nole is like me" - Soccer star Zlatan Ibrahimović sees himself in Djokovic

Novak Djokovic is renown for his mental fortitude and relentless fighting spirit, and these traits have made him one of the most difficult opponents to overcome during his illustrious career.

The Serbian is also known for playing some of his best tennis when he's upset or has the crowd against him, another characteristic that makes him a great champion. Swedish soccer star and AC Milan forward Zlatan Ibrahimović believes these are qualities he shares with the Serbian, claiming he shares the same fire as the World No.1.

"When Novak plays and gets angry he brings out his best, and that's how I feel alive," revealed Ibrahimović. "He's a complete athlete. Nole is like me."

Read also

2021 BNP Paribas Open Indian Wells ATP Prize Money with $1,209,730 to the winner

Although Djokovic displayed some of that anger and fire during the 2021 US Open, the 20-time Grand Slam champion was unable to bring home the trophy, falling in the final to Daniil Medvedev. Following the loss, Djokovic announced his withdrawal from the BNP Paribas Open Indian Wells event, which runs from October 4-17, 2021.