As the sun-drenched courts of Wimbledon 2025 host electrifying matches, world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka has not only been dominating opponents but also stealing the spotlight with her infectious camaraderie with tennis legend Novak Djokovic. The Belarusian powerhouse, fresh off a commanding 6-4, 6-3 quarter-final victory over Elise Mertens, has revealed the playful dynamic she shares with the seven-time Wimbledon champion, describing how Djokovic “makes fun of her” during their interactions. Their lighthearted exchanges, from practice courts to press conferences, have become a highlight of the tournament, offering fans a glimpse into the warmth and humor that define their friendship amid the high-stakes drama of SW19.
Sabalenka, 27, has been a force at Wimbledon, storming into the semi-finals without dropping a set, her booming serve and aggressive baseline game averaging 28 winners per match. Her journey included a gripping third-round win over Emma Raducanu, where she overcame a partisan Centre Court crowd to secure a 7-6(6), 6-4 victory. Post-match, Djokovic sent her a heartfelt message, a gesture she cherished. “He’s always making fun of me, but it’s in such a nice way,” Sabalenka shared in a press conference, her smile reflecting their bond. “After I beat Emma, he sent me a really sweet message, and his son even sent a drawing, which was so cute.” Their friendship, which blossomed through shared practice sessions and off-court banter, has become a talking point, with fans buzzing over their chemistry.
The duo’s connection was on full display before the tournament began. During a practice session at Aorangi Park, Djokovic playfully teased Sabalenka about her signature grunt, quipping, “That would be a hindrance on the ATP Tour.” Sabalenka, quick to respond, laughed and retorted, “I thought we were friends?” The exchange, overheard by onlookers, went viral, showcasing their easy rapport. Djokovic later elaborated on their session, revealing that Sabalenka sought his advice. “She asked me for a couple of tips, and I was flattered,” he said. “What we talked about stays between us, but maybe hearing it directly from me will resonate differently for her.” Sabalenka credited Djokovic’s mentorship, particularly for refining her return game, noting, “Talking a lot to Novak really helped me with one particular shot.” Her return stats at Wimbledon—breaking serve 12 times in four matches—reflect the impact of his guidance.
Their camaraderie extended to a memorable moment when Djokovic crashed Sabalenka’s press conference, turning it into a playful Q&A. “What do you think about hitting with me? How do you see my level?” Sabalenka asked, prompting Djokovic to cheekily reply, “I think you have potential,” before urging her to up her intensity. The room erupted in laughter, with Sabalenka giving him an honorary introduction as “the greatest of all time.” Their interactions, from a dance-off at Roland Garros to mingling at a luxury watch event hosted by Audemars Piguet, where Sabalenka was joined by her boyfriend, Georgios Frangulis, highlight a bond that transcends competition. Even Jelena Djokovic, Novak’s wife, joined the fun, sharing her delight at meeting Sabalenka, describing her as “genuine and inspiring.”
Sabalenka’s Wimbledon campaign is her strongest yet, as she eyes her first title at the grass-court major, having reached the semi-finals in 2021 and 2023. “I’m just trying to stay focused and keep pushing,” she said, channeling Djokovic’s mental resilience. Facing either Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova or Donna Vekic next, she remains the top seed and betting favorite, especially after early exits by players like Coco Gauff and Jessica Pegula. Djokovic, meanwhile, is chasing history, aiming for an eighth Wimbledon crown to match Roger Federer’s record. His 100th Wimbledon win, a 6-3, 6-0, 6-4 rout of Miomir Kecmanovic, underscored his enduring prowess, though a tough fourth-round match against Alex de Minaur looms.
For Sabalenka, Djokovic’s mentorship is more than just technical advice. “He’s got this incredible mindset,” she said, noting how his approach against hostile crowds, like during his 2019 final against Federer, inspired her against Raducanu. “He showed me how to turn the crowd’s energy into motivation.” As both players navigate Wimbledon’s pressures, their friendship—marked by laughter, mutual respect, and shared ambition—offers a refreshing counterpoint to the tournament’s intensity, proving that even at the pinnacle of tennis, there’s room for fun and connection.
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