Djokovic's beautiful moment with retiring tennis great
Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic have all paid retiring tennis legend Radek Stepanek an emotional tribute during an exhibition match this week.
The 39-year-old Czech star is farewelling the game he loves, and Djokovic was on hand to deliver a truly heartfelt message for the former world No.8.
“It’s an amazing pleasure to be here tonight, Radek for you that I truly love, as a friend, as a rival, as a colleague, as a mentor,” Djokovic said.
“And as an older brother from another mother.”
Stepanek’s glittering career was celebrated in front of a huge crowd in Prague, with Andre Agassi, Tommy Haas, Tomas Berdych and Marian Vajda just a few of the stars in attendance.
But what stunned fans even further was Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal also submitting testimonials via pre-recorded video, leaving Stepanek entirely humbled:
“I just wanted to congratulate you on a wonderful career, and of course wish you all the best for what’s to come,” Federer said.
“I hope you have the most unbelievable evening with Novak and of course I can’t wait to see you again down the road…take care my friend.”
Having worked with Djokovic in the past in a coaching role, the Serb’s long relationship with Stepanek was evident in his emotional speech.
“I also had him as a tennis coach, I had him in every role in my life, but I have him in the most important role which is as a friend,” Djokovic continued.
“He deserves it because he is a wonderful human being, he’s an incredible tennis player, and he’s had an amazing career.
“He has done a lot for the Czech Republic and I know exactly how he felt about playing for this country…I was sharing some big moments on the court with him – on the same side of the net and on the opposite side of the net.
“I want to congratulate you on a wonderful career and wish you all the best for what’s to come.”
The pair played a one-set exhibition match in from of the crowd, which took place in his home country.
Stepanek got the better of his former protege, prevailing in a tiebreaker before the two embraced at the net.
Known for his never-give-up attitude and raw talent, Stepanek’s career was highlight by reaching as high as number eight in the world, winning two Grand Slams and claiming a Bronze medal at the Olympics.
Rafael Nadal’s tribute was a testament to Stepanek’s on-court presence:
“It’s been a pleasure to share with you some great moments on tour,” Nadal said via video.
“There has been some great battles (between us) and I just wanted to wish you all the best for the future.”
