Novak Djokovic throws subtle shade at Roger Federer claiming the Swiss didn’t like his behavior at the beginning of his career

While speaking at the post-match press conference following his victory over the Argentinian, Novak Djokovic remarked on how elder players did not appreciate his giddy confidence during the beginning of his professional tennis career. The 36-year-old claimed that his arch-rival, Roger Federer, did not always side with his behavior but he did always maintain mutual respect with the Swiss great. He said:

I mean, I know certainly Federer didn't like the way I was behaving at the beginning. I think it didn't sit with him well. I don't know about the others. I guess I wasn't the favorite type of guy to some of the top guys because I was not afraid to say that I want to be the best player in the world. I was kind of - not kind of - I was confident. I felt like I have the game to back it up. I never, ever lacked respect.

Novak Djokovic said

Former World No. 1 Federer walked away from the sport in 2022 after enjoying a splendid career which witnessed him bag 20 Grand Slam singles titles to his name.

Novak Djokovic stated that players’ criticism fueled him to do better on the ATP Tour

While talking on the same interview, Novak Djokovic stated that elder players’ criticism fueled him to do better on the ATP Tour and dominate his way to the top of professional tennis.

Here is what he had to say:

It was fueling me even more. I mean, if I made a mistake, I would admit it and, of course, say I make a mistake, I raise my hand, I apologize or whatever. But if the criticism came with no particular reason I think, then I would just keep going the kind of direction that I chose, and that's it.

Novak Djokovic said

24-time Grand Slam champion Djokovic will next square off against Adrian Mannarino for a place quarterfinals of the Australian Open on Sunday, January 21.