Wednesday saw Novak Djokovic watch a basketball game in his hometown of Belgrade. Naturally, there was much fanfare around one of the greatest players in the world, but there was also a happy moment within the chaos. The 22-time Grand Slam champion, who also enjoys basketball, is now sidelined because he was unable to enter the Indian Wells Open and Miami Open due to US entrance criteria. But, this spare time has allowed him to watch some basketball in Belgrade.
He also went to see local powerhouse Crvena Zvezda play Valencia in the Euroleague on Wednesday. A standing ovation was given to Djokovic, one of Serbia’s favorite sons, and he naturally expressed his gratitude by waving and mouthing “thank you.”
After halftime, Djokovic stepped onto the court to connect with some kids. Of course, things got a little hectic as everyone flocked to get a handshake or a selfie with the accomplished athlete. Djokovic slipped something to one of the kids in the heat of everything, and it was later discovered that the tennis legend had lost his credit card. The kid then gave it back to the 35-year-old.
Here is the video.
The kids found Novak’s credit card and gave it back, hence the treat from #Djokovic 🤝 https://t.co/hZJP1QHER7
— Saša Ozmo (@ozmo_sasa) March 29, 2023
Novak Djokovic in 2023
Now ranked no.2, Novak played his last match on the 3rd of March when he was overcome by world no.5 Daniil Medvedev 6-4 6-4 in the semifinal in Dubai (draw).
Presently, during this year Djokovic has a composed 15-1 record. Djokovic has won 2 titles in 2023 in Adelaide and Australian Open.
Djokovic will compete next in Banja Luka (Banja Luka Open). He will start the tournament from the main draw that will commence on the 17th of April.