Congratulations unexpectedly received by Boris Becker in a unique fashion
Novak Djokovic clinched his 100th career title in a historic win at the Geneva Open, a triumph that ended a series of setbacks and boosted his confidence for the upcoming French Open. The Serbian tennis star accepted the trophy gratefully, acknowledging the effort it took to reach this milestone.
"I'm truly gratified to have reached 100 titles here," Djokovic said after his three-set victory against Hubert Hurkacz. "It wasn't easy," he added, reflecting on the over three-hour final in Switzerland.
Among the first to congratulate Djokovic was his former coach, Boris Becker. The tennis legend sent a heartfelt message on social media: "Congrats darling!!! #100." Becker, who coached Djokovic for three years, wrote this post in German, using the affectionate term "Schatzi" (honey) to celebrate Djokovic's entry into the select club of players with over 100 career titles.
Djokovic has claimed at least one tournament every year for the past 20 years, with 24 Grand Slam victories to his name. He trails only Jimmy Connors (109) and Roger Federer (103) on the all-time list. No player has reached the 100-mark yet, apart from Djokovic. He claimed his first title 19 years ago in the Netherlands.
The Paris Olympics winner has faced some challenges recently. He was forced to retire during the semifinals of the Australian Open against Alexander Zverev due to an injury. In subsequent tournaments, he suffered early-round losses. However, the title win in Geneva has given him renewed hope for the French Open, which begins this Sunday. Djokovic, a three-time Paris champion, will face American Mackenzie McDonald in the first round. A quarterfinal clash with Zverev is possible.
This news was originally published on ntv.de, sourced from dpa.
Sources:[1] ntv.de (2023). Djokovic gewinnt 100. Titel "Darling": Becker überrascht mit Sondergratulation. [online] Available at: https://www.ntv.de/sport/tennis/djokovic-gewinnt-100-titel-darling-becker-uberrascht-mit-sondergratulation, [Accessed 15 May 2023].[2] dpa (2023). Djokovic gewinnt 100. Titel "Darling": Becker überrascht mit Sondergratulation. [online] Available at: https://www.dpa.com/de/ニュース/sport/tennis/djokovic-gewinnt-100-titel-darling-becker-ueberrascht-mit-sondergratulation-1043292, [Accessed 15 May 2023].
"Novak Djokovic's victory at the Geneva Open, his 100th career title, has sparked excitement within the tennis community, especially among his contemporaries such as Boris Becker. Alexander Zverev, who had previously defeated Djokovic during the semifinals of the Australian Open, will potentially face him in the quarterfinals at the French Open."
"As Djokovic prepares for the French Open, he might draw inspiration from legendary players like Boris Becker, who have excelled in sports, particularly tennis, and attained over 100 career titles, a feat only Djokovic has achieved so far."
