Novak Djokovic: ‘Extraordinary’ Serena Williams is one of the greatest athletes in history

American’s bid for a record-equalling 24th grand slam was ended in the semi-finals by Naomi Osaka

Tom Kershaw
Thursday 18 February 2021 09:22 EST
Comments
(AFP via Getty Images)

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

Novak Djokovic hailed Serena Williams as one of the greatest athletes in history after the American broke down in tears following defeat by Naomi Osaka at the Australian Open.

Williams, 39, who was bidding to win a record-equalling 24th grand slam, was beaten 6-3 6-4 in the semi-finals and choked up during her post-match press conference when asked if it could be her last time appearing at the tournament.

“If I ever say farewell, I wouldn’t tell anyone,” said Williams, who last won a grand slam in 2017 before taking a break to give birth to her daughter Alexis Olympia.

Questioned over whether the defeat was simply down to a “bad day at the office”, Williams said: “I don’t know. I’m done,” and left the press conference room in tears.

Djokovic, who defeated Aslan Karatsev in his semi-final, expressed his support for Williams and sympathised with her frustrations.

“When you’re chasing big things that are related to the history of the sport, obviously it has a lot of weight, a lot of pressure,” he said. “She’s such an amazing champion ... what she has been doing, is still doing at her age is extraordinary.

“She’s one of the greatest ever, there is no doubt, (among) athletes as well as tennis players. So, I’m just proud and honoured to be playing at the same time as she does.”

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in