On Sunday, Novak Djokovic will face Stefanos Tsitsipas in the final of the 2023 Australian Open. In addition to winning the first major of the season, the winner will also become the new world number 1 by ousting Carlos Alcaraz from the throne after 20 weeks of reign
The Serbian phenomenon seeks his tenth seal at Melbourne Park, where he has not lost since 2018. A possible ‘Down Under’ victory would also allow him to reach 22 Majors, tying his eternal rival Rafael Nadal in the all-time ranking.
For the Greek, on the other hand, it would be the first Grand Slam of his career, after losing the 2021 Roland Garros final against Nole. In recent days, the ‘Djoker’ has once again ended up in the eye of the storm after his father was immortalized along with some Putin supporters outside the Rod Laver Arena.
Srdjan was not present in Novak’s box during his semifinal match against Tommy Paul and it is unclear if he will be there on Sunday. Pressed by the journalists of ‘The Age’, the director of AO, Craig Tiley, expressed his sincere opinion on the matter.
Craig Tiley on Nole Djokovic
Craig Tiley has spoken in words collected by TheAge, about the controversy caused by the appearance of Novak Djokovic’s father in a friendly attitude with a group of Russians with symbols in favor of the war.
“I have been able to speak with them and it was clear to me that Srdjan does not support the war. They have had a very good attitude and are aware of the importance of avoiding things like this. I recommended that they be very careful because an event of this caliber is very remarkable and you have to be careful with what is broadcast.
We know that there may be people who come to the tournament for harmful purposes, so I told them to try to stay away from that at all times, ”commented the director of the Australian Open 2023. After Djokovic’s victory in the semifinals, Boris Becker told him Eurosport Germany’s Matchball Becker program that Novak Djokovic’s professional achievements should not be underestimated.
«I don’t know if a tennis player can do something like that again. We’re watching tennis history live here. We all take it for granted: Djoker, he’ll do it. No, guys, that’s not normal!» Becker said. «You could also tell on the court that he was catching his breath a little bit more than usual. Let’s enjoy it while we can see it because at some point it will be over,» Becker said.
