'Role model for generations': Cristiano Ronaldo showers praise on Novak Djokovic after Globe Sports Award

Ronaldo calls Djokovic a ‘role model’, heaps praise during Dubai’s Atlantis event.

Novak Djokovic, the 24-time Grand Slam champion, added another trophy to an already illustrious cabinet on December 28. He was honored with the first-ever Globe Sports Award, by another sporting legend, Cristiano Ronaldo.

A small presentation depicted the Serbian icon’s struggles early on, having had to develop his tennis career in the backdrop of Serbia’s growing struggles against war and crime. Despite the hostilities back home, Djokovic was focussed and never stopped pursuing his ultimate goal.

Even after entering the ATP tour, the struggles never ended, as he was treated an outsider. However, Djokovic created his own greatness, entering an era dominated by Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal, to become the greatest and most successful tennis player.

Djokovic’s journey is an inspiration to everyone out there, proving nothing in life is impossible. Football legend Cristiano Ronaldo recognised Djokovic’s achievements, commenting “Novak Djokovic is a role model. He deserves this award as he is a great role model for the current and future generations.”

He later took to his social media account on X, and wrote: “Game-changers stop time. They are timeless. Congratulations Novak Djokovic for having in your hands a so deserved first ever Globe Sports Award.”

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At 38 years of age, Djokovic is still going strong on the ATP tour. While the elusive Grand Slam might be out of his range, the Serbian remains the third-best male player, beating everyone else on tour, barring the World No. 1 and 2.

Djokovic also made his intentions of playing the LA 2028 Olympics clear, a reiteration of his eventual retirement plans. He is slated to kickoff his 2026 season at the Adelaide Open, serving as preparation for the 2026 Australian Open.

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