"This is so nice" - Iga Swiatek thanks Novak Djokovic for his praise of her 'champion mindset' at US Open 2023
Iga Swiatek has taken to Twitter to thank Novak Djokovic for his kind words for her at the 2023 US Open. Djokovic recently lavished praise on Swiatek's "champion mindset," labelling her a "warrior".
Swiatek, who is the defending champion, faced off against her good friend Kaja Juvan in the third round of the New York Major on Friday. The top seed took just 49 minutes to sweep past Juvan with a 6-0, 6-1 scoreline.
Novak Djokovic has also progressed to the fourth round at Flushing Meadows, having beaten Alexandre Muller, Bernabe Zapata Miralles and compatriot Laslo Djere in his opening three matches.
In a post-match press conference, the 36-year-old lauded Iga Swiatek and spoke about her "champion mindset." He also complimented the Pole's athleticism, her dedication towards the game, and her humility.
"I love her devotion, dedication. Maybe she's too humble to say this, but she's got a great fighting spirit. She's a warrior, she goes out there and doesn't give a single game. I really like that kind of champion spirit and mindset," said Djokovic.
In response to the 23-time Grand Slam champion's remarks, Swiatek took to Twitter to thank him.
"This is so nice. Thank you for your words @DjokerNole 🙏🏼", Swiatek tweeted.
"I'm still able to play five sets deep at night" - Novak Djokovic hits back at doubters after 3R win at US Open
Novak Djokovic faced off against compatriot Laslo Djere in an all-Serbian third-round tie at the US Open. The 36-year-old came back from two sets down to eventually triumph with a 4-6, 4-6, 6-1, 6-1, 6-3 scoreline on Arthur Ashe Stadium.
During the post-match press conference, Djokovic said that the five-set win over Djere should have made it clear that regardless of the match conditions, he was still a fighter and that he wouldn't back down.
"Well, look, of course winning a match is always better than losing a match. It's as simple as that. I think the message is sent to the rest of the field that obviously I'm still able to play five sets deep at night," said the 36-year-old.
The three-time US Open winner, however, added that he would prefer a win in straight sets.
"Coming from two sets down always sends a strong message to the future opponents," he continued. "At the same time I'm not really wanting to be in this position, to be honest. I prefer a straight-set win. Hopefully I can get back on that track in the next match."