Buenos Aires, Argentina – Novak Djokovic, the 24-time Grand Slam champion, has arrived in Argentina to participate in an exhibition match against his friend and former rival, Juan Martín del Potro. This event, titled “El Último Desafío” (The Last Challenge), celebrates del Potro’s retirement from professional tennis.
The match is scheduled for Sunday, December 1st, at the Estadio Mary Terán de Weiss in Buenos Aires. Del Potro, who has been plagued by injuries throughout his career, will play his final match against Djokovic, marking the end of an era for the Argentine tennis star.
Djokovic landed in Argentina on Friday, November 29th, and attended an official dinner with del Potro on the same evening. The Serbian tennis legend also held a press conference on Saturday, November 30th, where he discussed his new coaching collaboration with Andy Murray.
The exhibition match is expected to draw a large crowd, with the stadium’s capacity of 15,500 people. Although there is currently no television coverage, there is a possibility that broadcasting rights may be acquired at the last minute.
Del Potro, known for his powerful forehand and emotional playing style, has had a remarkable career despite his physical challenges. He won the 2009 US Open, defeating Roger Federer in an epic five-set final, and has been a beloved figure in Argentine sports.
Djokovic expressed his admiration for del Potro, stating, “I hope for at least an hour or two to have relief from my pain,” referring to the emotional and physical suffering del Potro has endured. The match is not just a farewell but a celebration of del Potro’s contributions to tennis and his resilience in the face of adversity.
Fans around the world are eagerly anticipating this special event, which promises to be an emotional and memorable occasion for tennis enthusiasts.
Novak Djokovic in 2024
Now the world no.7, Djokovic played his last encounter on the 13th of October when he lost to world no.1 Jannik Sinner 7-6(4) 6-3 in the final in Shanghai (draw).
Until now, during this year the Serbian has a 37-9 record. Djokovic has won 1 title in Paris. The Serbian was the runner-up in Wimbledon and Shanghai.