Novak Djokovic and his Serbian teammates ring in the New Year on the tennis court following their victory in the United Cup.
People worldwide welcomed the new year in various grand ways, with many reveling in bars, nightclubs, or the comfort of their homes. However, for tennis legend Novak Djokovic, the New Year’s Eve festivities unfolded on the tennis court shortly after his pivotal role in leading his team to a 2-1 victory over China in the United Cup.
Djokovic, boasting 24 Grand Slam titles, triumphed over world No. 58 Zhang Zhizhen with a 6-3, 6-2 win in singles during his opening match of the international team-based tournament at Perth’s RAC Arena. Later, teaming up with Olga Danilovic, they secured a 6-4, 1-6, 10-6 victory over the Chinese duo of Zhang and Zheng Qinwen, contributing to Serbia’s overall triumph in the tie and a strong start to their campaign. Notably, Djokovic, during the doubles clash, kept an eye on the time, and he and Danilovic sealed the win precisely at midnight.
Following the victory, the Serbian superstar urged the house DJ to take over briefly before inviting the spectators present at the arena to join him and his teammates in a countdown to 2024.
Watch the celebrations here:
About last night 🎆
Ringing in the new year with Team Serbia and our Aussie fans 🥳 How good!
Happy 2024 to all of our international fans 🎉#UnitedCup pic.twitter.com/lqqTLVQAAN
— United Cup (@UnitedCupTennis) January 1, 2024
“Appreciation to the fans for staying late; we’re delighted you chose to share this special night with us,” Djokovic expressed after the match.
As the most decorated among the current players on the circuit at 36, he stands on the brink of a 25th Grand Slam victory, surpassing Margaret Court’s all-time record. Djokovic aims to achieve this historic feat at the upcoming Australian Open in Melbourne later this month.
