Djokovic class | The Journal of Montreal

What sets great athletes apart from others is the small things they do on and off the field. Novak Djokovic falls into this category.

Also read: Denis Shapovalov runs into Novak Djokovic again

After the meeting, he did not hesitate to praise Denis Shapovalov in his interview on the world’s first rocket field. You’d think it was only for cameras, but it wasn’t.

The Serb went to meet the Canadian in the locker room and he slipped some words of encouragement. Not all athletes do this.

“I want him to be my teacher one day, because that means he’s not playing anymore,” Shapovalov said with a laugh. She is an amazing person.

“Seeing him come into the locker room to say a few words to me means a lot to me. He doesn’t. He told me he understood very well the emotions I was experiencing. He said my turn would come.

“It’s amazing to say a guy like him. He doesn’t. It shows what kind of person he is.”

Bubble story

A few weeks ago, Shapovalov announced that he would not be defending Canada’s colors at the Tokyo Olympics. On Friday, he lifted the veil on the possible reasons for his decision.

“It has a lot to do with sanctions, being in the bubble again and the whole situation [de la COVID-19], Explained Shapovalov. I was in England for a month. Mentally, I’m running out and it’s not easy for anyone.

“It simply came to our notice then. In fact, I love to play in the Olympics and represent my country. It was a dream come true for me. “

He went further on the sacrifices players have to make due to sanctions.

“It puts a lot of pressure on you. It’s so hard on the mind. I am free from all these circumstances, from limitations. We can’t go anywhere. It’s not easy for anyone. “