“These are people who are very important in my life,” Djokovic praises loyal fans ahead of showdown with Alcaraz at Wimbledon

Novak Djokovic spoke about his most loyal fans and expressed gratitude for more than 15 years of support throughout his career. The 24-time Grand Slam champion is preparing to compete in his 10th Wimbledon final this Sunday against world No. 2 Carlos Alcaraz.

This will be a rematch of the 2023 final, where the Spaniard claimed his second Grand Slam title in a five-set match that lasted over 4 hours and 40 minutes. Djokovic hopes to achieve a historic milestone by reaching Roger Federer’s record of 8 Wimbledon titles and surpassing Margaret Court if he wins his 25th Grand Slam.

Just hours before he aims to secure his first title of the season, Djokovic reflected on his most dedicated fans over the years and thanked them for their unwavering support throughout his career.

"A while ago, I had an interaction with the remaining members of Nolefam, 20 or 30 of them. We exchanged thanks, they sang, they supported me. I thank them from the bottom of my heart, they are always there for me. They wait hours after the match for everything to be over, when I pass by, they are there. They don't even ask for a photo or an autograph, just to wish me good night," Djokovic said emotionally.

"They wait for hours after the match for me to finish everything, when I drive by, they are there. They don't even ask for a picture or a signature, but just to wish me good night. These are people who are very important in my life, who follow me."

"One should realize: 'Hey, you have people who have dedicated their lives and energy to you. They are praying for you, they want you to win.' I try to give back with victories and tickets to see the matches. Some other things, events that we have been doing for 10 years. So, many thanks to them,” he added.

The Serbian will attempt to stop Alcaraz’s streak of 13 consecutive victories at the All England Club on Sunday. Djokovic leads the head-to-head 3-2 and has won the last two encounters, although the Spaniard claimed the victory in their only grass-court meeting, precisely in the 2023 Wimbledon final.