Watch: Novak Djokovic teases Denis Shapovalov during media obligations at Madrid Open
Tennis superstar Novak Djokovic was seen teasing Denis Shapovalov while the two were fulfilling their media commitments at the Madrid Open. Shapovalov was busy writing on a piece of paper before Djokovic interrupted the Canadian, quizzing him on what he was doing. The duo then broke into laughter.
Shapovalov responded by saying that Djokovic broke his thought process.
"You broke my thought now, man."
Projected Djokovic-Shapovalov 3rd round won't happen as the Canadian lost to Andy Murray
Djokovic and Shapovalov were on the same side of the draw for the 2022 Madrid Open, but the Canadian's tournament came to an end after losing to Andy Murray in the second round.
Meanwhile, Djokovic beat Gael Monfils in his opening match of the Madrid Masters in straight sets, dropping just five games against the Frenchman. He improved to an impressive 18-0 record against Monfils after this win.
Novak Djokovic has suffered a stop-start season as the Serb's unwillingness to take the COVID-19 vaccine has affected his ability to partake in tournaments throughout the year.
Djokovic looked rusty throughout his campaign at the Serbia Open, needing three sets to win all his matches leading up to the final and losing to Andrey Rublev in three sets. Speaking in an interview with sports news outlet Championat, Rublev said Djokovic's problems were "more psychological" and that changing COVID-19 rules could've affected the Serb.
Djokovic is still World No. 1 despite not winning a tournament this year. With both Rafael Nadal and Daniil Medvedev having been sidelined due to injuries in recent weeks, their conquest to regain the top ranking spot has stalled.
Nadal will return to action at the ongoing Madrid Open but Medvedev remains out after undergoing a hernia procedure last month.
Novak Djokovic won't have it easy from the start, considering the likes of Casper Ruud, Hubert Hurkacz and Andy Murray are in his section of the draw. However, the Serb displayed good form as he defeated Gael Monfils in his opener, osing only five games in the match.
The World No. 1 has won the Madrid Open on three occasions (2011, 2016 and 2019).