Novak Djokovic had kind words for fellow Paris Olympics gold medalist Zheng Qinwen. The Serb praised Zheng and asserted that he was available to his coaching team if they needed advice.
During a press conference in Shanghai after defeating Roman Safiullin in the fourth round, Djokovic was informed about Zheng’s comments from last week. The Chinese player wished to click a picture with the Serb with their gold medals, but she revealed that they had not yet received an opportunity to do so.
“She made China proud this year at the Olympic games. She brought the gold medal, I think first ever in tennis for China, so it’s a big deal,” Djokovic said. “She’s a great person, and a really, really good player that keeps on improving.”
The World No. 4 revealed that they have a “nice relationship” off the court, and he is a “big fan” of Zheng as a person and as a player. He also claimed that he was open to guiding her coaching team if they needed it.
“So, of course I’m there, she know that’s I’m available to her, to her coaching team any time she wants to ask for advice or anything like that,” Djokovic said.
He also responded to her wish of getting a picture clicked with him.
Novak Djokovic sets a date for a picture with Zheng Qinwen and their Paris Olympic gold medals
Over a week ago, when Zheng Qinwen was competing in the China Open, she revealed that she had to reject Novak Djokovic’s offer to play at the Great Wall of China together.
Lacoste had organized a high-profile event called ‘The Shadow of a Champion on the Great Wall’ where the Serb played at the historic monument. However, Zheng had to reject the offer due to her schedule.
She also revealed that she wished to practice with Djokovic with his gold medal.
“Of course, the gold medal brought him a lot of great energy. I did not have the chance to take a picture with his gold medal. I really wish I could practice with him with his gold medal,” Zheng said.
In response, during his press conference in Shanghai on October 9, Djokovic said:
“I heard about the picture for the gold medal, with the gold medal, so that would be fun, that would be great. I don’t know if it’s going to happen before Australia, because our schedules are different, but maybe in Australia, we can bring the medals (laughing) and we can do it there.”
Zheng will take on Leylah Fernandez in the third round of the Wuhan Open on October 10. Meanwhile, Djokovic will square off against Jakub Mensik in the quarterfinals of the Shanghai Masters a day after.
