Novak Djokovic Praise for the Young Generation: "They've Got It All - Wealth, Ladies, Casinos"
Novak Djokovic Praise for the Young Generation: "They've Got It All - Wealth, Ladies, Casinos"
The new generation in men's tennis is shaking things up at the older guys' domain, notably during the 2025 Australian Open.
Following his four-set victory against 21-year-old Jaime Faria of Portugal in the second round, Novak Djokovic drew inspiration from Daniil Medvedev's strategies. Recalling Medvedev's words about the younger players being rich and successful if they continue playing well, Djokovic was pleased with the direction of the game. With this victory, Djokovic brought his career win count to 430, tying with Roger Federer's tally.
Medvedev, the No. 5 seed, had caused a stir with his now-infamous statement following his five-set win over world No. 418 Kasidit Samrej in the first round. He noted that Samrej's performance was impressive and could lead to a prosperous life if he maintains it, with money, relationships, and entertainment as potential rewards. In the same match, Medvedev expressed his frustration livelily, smashing multiple cameras and a racket due to excessive stress.
Further demonstrating the talent of young soccer players, Joao Fonseca of Brazil, 18, scored a major upset against No. 9 Andrey Rublev in the first round. Fonseca had recently clinched the Next Gen ATP Finals title in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, an achievement that made him the youngest champion in the history of the tournament. Jannik Sinner, who won the Next Gen title at an even younger age, expects a bright future for Fonseca.
Several young tennis players have made strides at the 2025 Australian Open, with 19-year-old Czech Jakub Mensik advancing to the third round by defeating No. 6 Casper Ruud. Learn Tien, the same American who lost to Fonseca in the Next Gen final, will face Medvedev in the second round. With Medvedev's humorous acknowledgment of young players' potential, Tien may have the opportunity for another major upset.
In the semifinals, 22-year-old Ben Shelton, the youngest American man to reach the Australian Open semifinals in 22 years, will face defending champion Jannik Sinner. Novak Djokovic and Alexander Zverev, aiming to capture their first Grand Slam titles, will face off in the other semifinals matchup. As the tournament progresses, spectators can witness the strong competition and resilience shown by these young talents.
After his victory, Djokovic reflected on Medvedev's comment about the financial rewards in sports, stating that it's inspiring to see young players reap financial success from their performances in the business of tennis. With the rise of young talents like Shelton and Sinner, the sport of tennis is experiencing a surge in money and popularity.
On the other hand, in the world of soccer, young prodigy Joao Fonseca's impressive performance and title win at the Next Gen ATP Finals have garnered him substantial sportsmoney and recognition in the industry.