Even as Novak Djokovic dominated the proceedings against Grigor Dimitrov during a 69-minute victory to reach the Inter Miami Open final on Friday, the 24-time Grand Slam winner experienced some jitters on court in the presence of another legendary sports figure in Lionel Messi.
The Argentine football superstar was in attendance during Djokovic’s 6-2, 6-3 win that put the Serb within touching distance of a staggering 100th career title. Djokovic later hailed Messi and shared the experience of catching up with the football icon’s family.
“It’s a great honour to have King Leo in the stands. I think it’s the first time I’ve played in front of Messi, and honestly, I was a little nervous,” said Djokovic.
“I am very grateful for his attendance with his family. I have always been a fan of him, as most of the world has, throughout his career.”
Djokovic was also asked about Messi in his press conference. “I’ve watched him play a few times. I think the finals of World Cup, I watched when he won with Argentina. I think I watched him last year once. I think it was with L.A. with Inter Miami.
An honor to meet the greatness and his whole family. Gracias Leo. Asta pronto 🙌💪 pic.twitter.com/E6NnuHJSv0
— Novak Djokovic (@DjokerNole) March 28, 2025
“Obviously thrilled to have his whole family. I did see him after the match. Came by the locker room. So we spent some time talking and exchanging gifts.
“It’s huge honour. I mean, he’s such a great athlete, not just a football player. His impact on the world of sport in the last 20 years has been immense. To have him watch me live obviously brings me great, great joy and excitement, and also a bit of pressure, to be honest.
‘Rated by Messi Jr.’
Djokovic also cheekily opened up on being rated by one of Messi’s sons. “I was rated by one of his sons today as 8 out of 10, which is pretty good. He with a serious face told me I have too make 10 out of 10 next match. So I have quite a bit of pressure from Messi’s son there. Yeah, we joked around. It was nice to meet with his whole family. It was very touching moment for me because it’s one thing that he comes, but then bringing his whole family, his kids, his wife.
Story continues below this ad
“As a young father myself, I know what that means. It’s different when you bring the whole family. I was very touched by that and his willingness to spend some time after. I value that time with him.
“It’s a wonderful moment for me and for this tournament and tennis in general for him to be here.”