Novak Djokovic once had the controversial rapper Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs cheering him on during his 2011 US Open semifinal match against Roger Federer. Afterwards, the Serb revealed that he partied with Diddy but chose to keep the details of their meeting private.
In 2011, Djokovic was aiming for his first title at Flushing Meadows and his fourth Major overall. He overcame the likes of Conor Niland, Carlos Berlocq, Nikolay Davydenko, Alexandr Dolgopolov, and Janko Tipsarevic to set up a clash with Federer in the last four.The Serb had to fight hard against the Swiss, saving two match points to reach the final, where he faced defending champion Rafael Nadal. He defeated Nadal in a rematch of the 2010 final, reigning supreme with a score of 6-2, 6-4, 6-7(3), 6-1 to lift the trophy.
Novak Djokovic received strong backing from his family and team throughout his campaign alongside the added boost of special support from Diddy, who was in the stands cheering him on during his match against Federer.Later, in a press conference, Djokovic revealed that he had known the rapper beforehand and expressed how “great” it was to have him in attendance during the match.
“Well, it was great to have him there. We met at one party that I cannot talk about details,” the 24-time Grand Slam champion said.
“It was fun, you know. He’s a huge star obviously in show business, and he’s a character and a very successful man. So it was great to have him there. I think it was very interesting the way he supported me,” he added.
The former World No. also took to X (formerly Twitter) and wrote:
“@iamdiddy Yo Diddy! Thanx for supporting on saturday on US Open! Whole team thinks you are very cool.”
Novak Djokovic after winning US Open 2011: “It’s an incredible feeling”
Novak Djokovic had an outstanding season in 2011, becoming one of the few male players to win Wimbledon, the Canadian Open, and the US Open in the same calendar year—the first to do so since Roger Federer in 2006.
During his victory speech at Flushing Meadows, the Serb expressed his ecstasy over his overall performance and achievements for the year.
“It’s an incredible feeling. I’ve had an amazing year and it keeps going,” he said.
He also heaped praise on his opponent Rafael Nadal, saying:
“Every time I play Rafa it’s a big challenge. He’s had a great tournament and I wish we have many more tough matches in the coming years.”
Djokovic went on to win the New York Major three more times, in 2015, 2018, and 2023.
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