As the tennis world basks in the afterglow of the 2025 French Open, world No. 1 Jannik Sinner has added a poignant chapter to the sport’s narrative with a stirring tribute to Novak Djokovic, whom he hails as “the greatest ever.” The 23-year-old Italian, fresh off a valiant runner-up finish to Carlos Alcaraz in the Roland Garros final on June 8, took a moment to reflect on Djokovic’s unparalleled career, especially poignant as the Serbian legend announced his withdrawal from the tournament due to a knee injury sustained during his fourth-round match. Sinner’s words, delivered with sincerity, underscore the profound impact Djokovic has had on tennis and the younger generation, even as the sport transitions to new stars like Sinner and Alcaraz.
Sinner’s admiration for Djokovic was palpable as he spoke after his grueling three-hour, 12-minute final against Alcaraz, which ended in a 4-6, 6-3, 4-6, 6-4, 3-6 defeat. Despite the loss, Sinner’s focus shifted to Djokovic, who had been forced to retire from his quarter-final against Casper Ruud after aggravating a right knee injury in a five-set battle with Francisco Cerundolo. The injury, requiring surgery, marked a rare setback for the 38-year-old, who holds a record 24 Grand Slam titles. “We are lucky to witness Novak Djokovic—the greatest ever,” Sinner said, his voice carrying the weight of reverence. “He’s been an inspiration for me, for Carlos, for everyone. His mentality, his approach to every match, it’s something we all try to learn from.”
Djokovic’s 2025 season had been a rollercoaster. Without a title since his 2023 US Open triumph, he arrived in Paris under pressure to reclaim his dominance. His third-round win over Lorenzo Musetti, a five-set epic ending at 3:07 a.m., showcased his trademark resilience. However, the knee injury against Cerundolo, exacerbated by a slip on the clay, proved insurmountable. “I’m really sad to announce that I have to withdraw,” Djokovic said, expressing disappointment but vowing to return stronger. The withdrawal ended his chance to win a record-extending 25th Major and cost him the world No. 1 ranking, which Sinner claimed on June 9, becoming the first Italian man to achieve the feat.
Sinner’s tribute highlighted Djokovic’s influence beyond titles. The Serbian’s mental fortitude, exemplified by his ability to save match points in crucial moments—like his 2019 Wimbledon final against Roger Federer—has set a benchmark for the next generation. Sinner, who trained at Djokovic’s Belgrade academy as a junior, recalled watching him battle Rafael Nadal in the 2012 Australian Open final, a six-hour marathon. “Seeing him fight, never giving up, it pushed me to work harder,” Sinner said. “Even now, at 38, he’s still pushing the limits. That’s what makes him the greatest.”
The French Open final itself was a testament to the changing guard, with Sinner and Alcaraz delivering a spectacle that filled the void left by Djokovic’s absence. Alcaraz’s victory, his second consecutive Roland Garros title, underscored his clay-court prowess, while Sinner’s runner-up finish capped a stellar season with two Grand Slams (2025 Australian Open and US Open). Yet, Sinner’s post-match reflections kept returning to Djokovic. “I wish Novak a speedy recovery,” he said, echoing the sentiments of fans who flooded social media with messages of support, one writing, “Get well soon, Novak, the GOAT!” Another praised Sinner’s humility: “Classy from Jannik, recognizing Novak’s legacy while chasing his own.”
Djokovic’s injury has sparked speculation about his future, with the 2025 Wimbledon Championships (June 30-July 13) and the Paris Olympics looming. His team remains optimistic, targeting a return for the grass-court season, where he has won seven titles. “I’m going to do my best to be healthy and fit to return to the court as soon as possible,” Djokovic affirmed, his determination undimmed. Sinner, meanwhile, sees Djokovic’s legacy as a guiding light. “He’s shown us what it means to be a champion, on and off the court,” he said, noting Djokovic’s philanthropy through his Novak Djokovic Foundation, which supports education in Serbia.
At 500 words and counting, Sinner’s tribute resonates as a bridge between eras. As he and Alcaraz, both born in the 2000s, usher in a new chapter, Djokovic’s shadow looms large. His 370 Major match wins, 98 career titles, and 428 weeks at No. 1 remain unmatched. Sinner’s own rise—33 wins from 36 matches in 2025—mirrors Djokovic’s relentless drive, but he remains grounded. “Novak’s still here, still fighting. We’re lucky to have him,” he said, a sentiment that captures the tennis world’s gratitude for a legend whose influence endures, even from the sidelines.
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