Novak Djokovic responds to Nikola Jokic's comment about him / News - Basketnews.com

Despite the center's words, Djokovic called Jokic the pride of Serbia, saying that he's doing what no other player in Serbian basketball history has done. Nole revealed he recently received Joker's number and will text him to thank him for his words.

Credit: USA TODAY Sports via Reuters Con; Tennis TV Credit USA TODAY Sports via Reuters Con; Tennis TV

A week ago, Denver Nuggets center Nikola Jokic praised tennis superstar Novak Djokovic as the person he strives to become like. Now, the tennis player responded.

Nikola Jokic

MIN:34.61PTS:25.46 (66.67%)REB:12.1As:9.9ST:1.24BL:0.71TO:3.57GM:84ProfileNBA2022/2023

"He's the guy who represents Serbia in a much bigger scene. He's the Serbian ambassador. He's the idol to the kids in Serbia not just for the things on the court but [also] for the things his foundation is doing," Jokic said during a press conference, adding that he doesn't have Nole's number. "I want to be like him. He's doing something great for kids, for Serbia, for everything. We cannot be compared."

Djokovic has read the articles and has taken note of the Joker's words, which, he admits, pleased him quite a bit.

Talking on the Tennis TV panel during the Roland Garros tournament, Djokovic responded to Jokic's comment.

"The Sombor Shuffles. I actually watched it half an hour ago on the NBA Instagram page. They've posted some of his shots he makes one foot going backward over AD and LeBron, I mean, it's incredible. He's the MVP for me, for sure," Djokovic said.

"I don't think anyone can do what he's doing at the moment in basketball. He's definitely the best basketball player in the world," the tennis star continued. "I cheer for him greatly, he's an amazing guy, he's the pride of Serbia, we're so proud of him, we hope he can win his first ring."

Even though Jokic doesn't have Novak's number, Djokovic shared that he recently received his.

"I'm flattered, honestly. I saw his interview a week or so ago, and I'm really grateful. We haven't been in touch, actually, I just got his number yesterday, so I'll text him. It's difficult to get his number these days. I want to text him to say thank you because he really touched me with his wonderful words.

Nikola Jokic

Team:Denver NuggetsPosition:C, PFAge:28Height:208 cmWeight:111 kgBirth place:SerbiaProfileNewsStatistics

I feel the same [way] about him, to be honest. I think he's so humble, he's such a simple guy. He comes into one of the most popular sports and leagues in the world and just dominates for three years, it's just incredible. Listening to LeBron, AD, and all these guys that talk about him, Embiid, Antetokounmpo, and how much praise they've got for him, it makes me proud.

Djokovic is a big Crvena Zvezda Meridianbet Belgrade fan, he's been to numerous games of the club. He could also be seen in a EuroLeague game of Partizan Mozzart Bet Belgrade this season as well.

Djokovic later said that he always supports Serbian teams internationally, unless Crvena Zvezda is involved - then he's always in favor of the red-and-whites.

"I'm a big basketball fan. Serbia is a basketball nation. We pride ourselves that we've been quite good at basketball throughout history but we've never had someone as successful in the NBA as he is. All the kudos to him and hopefully I can watch him play live someday."

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