LONDON, ENGLAND – JULY 06: Roger Federer of Switzerland looks over at Novak Djokovic of Serbia as he walks past him during a change of ends during the Gentlemen’s Singles Final match on day thirteen of the Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Championships at the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club on July 6, 2014 in London, England. (Photo by Pool/Getty Images)
Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic have not had the best relationship during their time competing with each other. The two players who have competed at the top for years did not start out great, and a moment from the 2009 Australian Open reminds us of the fact. During the tournament, Djokovic had to withdraw but did not receive any sympathy from Federer, who was critical of the Serbian.
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While their relationship began sourly, they have reached a cordial point in their career now. Playing against each other for more than a decade, they have formed a cordial bond, and the real nature of their relationship was revealed by the Serbinator earlier this year. However, during their early years, the two were certainly not amicable with each other.
Roger Federer condemned Novak Djokovic for withdrawal
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Before making major changes in his diet, Djokovic often fell sick and had to withdraw from matches. The 2009 Australian Open was no different for him, as he had to forfeit during his quarterfinal bout against Andy Roddick. He was the fourth player to forfeit from the tournament due to the heat. While he was cramping, he did not receive any compassion from a player who was his senior, Roger Federer.
“He’s not a guy who’s never given up before … it’s disappointing,” said Federer, who would eventually become the runner-up of the tournament. “I’ve only done it once in my career … Andy totally deserved to win that match.”
His critique of Djokovic did not end there. He said, “I’m almost in favor of saying, you know what, if you’re not fit enough, just get out of here. If Novak were up two sets to love I don’t think he would have retired 4-0 down in the fourth. Thanks to Andy that he retired in the end. Andy pushed him to the limits. Hats off to Andy.”
The Serbian star was the recipient of rather harsh comments from Federer. Their relationship did not improve for years after the incident. Many would ponder over their bond off-court, which was revealed by the 24-time grand slam champion earlier this year.
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The Djoker on his equation with the Swiss Maestro
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Although sour, their relationship would change over time. Their interactions showed that the two had become amicable with each other in the way they interacted. Djokovic cleared the air on their outlook on each other in an interview with Corriere Della Sera. As per him, the two have never been friends. While there is no animosity or disdain between them, the two did not become acquainted personally.
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The start of their history and their current equation is not something one would consider the best. They have friends on-court but never looked at each other in the same capacity. Over time, they have warmed up to each other, and any aversion they had to each other is likely gone. Now, all that remains is the history of their matches.
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