"From my side towards Roger Federer, it has gotten to a higher level of respect"- When Novak Djokovic spoke about his evolving relationship with Swiss
Novak Djokovic once opened up about his evolving relationship with long-time rival Roger Federer. His remarks followed their visible camaraderie during the 2018 Laver Cup.
In 2018, Djokovic and Federer teamed up to play doubles at the Laver Cup, an event co-founded by the Swiss management firm, TEAM8. The duo took to the court on the first day in Chicago but fell short against Team World’s Jack Sock and Kevin Anderson, losing 7-6(5), 3-6, [6-10].
Later, during a press conference at the Shanghai Masters, the Serb spoke about his relationship with Federer and acknowledged how teaming up at the event had strengthened their bond.
"It was a very unique experience. I have never experienced being on the same side of the court with him before. I was very excited. I was looking forward to it. I know he was, as well. I thought we had a blast on the court. We had fantastic time," he said.
Novak Djokovic expressed how his respect for Roger Federer had grown even more following their time together in Chicago.
Despite that, the 24-time Grand Slam champion was clear that their rivalry remained intact, adding that whenever they faced each other on the court, they’d both still be just as determined to win.
"I think in terms of respect, you know, at least from my side towards him, it has gotten to even a higher level of respect, and I think this kind of experience in Chicago has strengthened our relationship," Djokovic said.
"But obviously it's not going to affect our rivalry. I think if we play each other and when we play each other next, you know, we want to win against each other. That's not going to change," he added.
Novak Djokovic won Shanghai Masters 2018 while Roger Federer exited in SF
Novak Djokovic won the 2018 Shanghai Masters. He could have faced off against Roger Federer in the final of the ATP 1000 tournament, but the Swiss fell short, losing in the semifinals.
Djokovic began his campaign in Shanghai in the second round against Jeremy Chardy, having received a first-round bye. The second seed then defeated Marco Cecchinato, Kevin Anderson, and Alexander Zverev to set up a clash with Borna Coric in the championship match.
The duo put up a strong fight, but ultimately it was the Serb who had the last laugh, securing a 6-3, 6-4 victory to claim his fourth title in Shanghai. The win was particularly significant for him as he was returning to peak form after struggling with injuries earlier in the season.