Djokovic reveals to Israelis: "I'm not close to retiring, one person will surely cry when that happens"
Novak plans to play for a long time, but points out that he would like to have a farewell like Roger Federer, with all his rivals there
Novak Djokovic left Israel with wonderful impressions and having won a title in Tel Aviv. Novak was welcomed in this city as if he were at home, he had wonderful support from the stands, he was part of a spectacle - Jonathan Erlich's farewell from tennis and now, full of energy and positive emotions, he moves on to conquer Kazakhstan, the tournament in Astana, part of the ATP Tour 500.
Recommended
Patriarch Porfirije receives Order of Nikola Tesla: "His remains must rest in a dignified place"
How the beautiful "Anthem to the Serbian Flag" was created: Students working together to preserve our heritage
Before leaving Tel Aviv, Novak spoke for Israeli media, telling Sports Walla about Israel and the hospitality he received.
"I played a lot of tennis this week, that's what I wanted and why I came to Israel. I didn't have time to go sightseeing to be honest, but I enjoyed the beach, I spent at least an hour there every day, I jogged, I rode my bike, I swam... I walked around the old town a bit and saw a bit of history."
"I was in Jerusalem a long time ago, I am familiar with the country, I will definitely come back here, not for a tennis tournament but as a tourist, to travel around the country and feel Israel, but also to thank all the people for the treatment I received here this week. I am grateful for that and for the connection I made with the people of Tel Aviv," Djokovic said.
The journalist noted that Novak almost cried during Jonathan Erlich's retirement ceremony and asked who will cry when he retires.
"My mother for sure," Novak said with a smile, and then noted that it was too early to think about it.
"I'm not close to retirement, I don't want to think too much about it. Roger had a beautiful send-off at Laver Cup in London. We were all there, with his family, to say goodbye to him at a magnificent event in a magnificent arena. It must have been special for him and there is no doubt that he deserved it. One thing I know is that I will definitely want my great rivals to come and say goodbye to me," Djokovic concluded.
(Telegraf.rs)