Juan Martin del Potro sends emotional message to Novak Djokovic after his ‘crazy idea’

Posted by author December 5, 2024 Tennis

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Novak Djokovic often played the role of the villain in 2024, but the tables were turned earlier this week.

Djokovic played Juan Martin del Potro in his farewell event, with the latter having now officially retired from tennis.

Del Potro says Djokovic has the ‘love of the people’ after the Serbian travelled to Argentina for the match following a busy season.

The duo enjoyed an exciting rivalry for several years on the court, with Djokovic now helping Del Potro bow out on a high after many frustrating injury issues.

The Argentine ace follows the likes of Rafael Nadal and Andy Murray into retirement this season, having also enjoyed a glittering career.

Photo by Marcelo Endelli/Getty Images

Juan Martin del Potro sends emotional message to Novak Djokovic

He leaves as a 22-time tour-level winner and former world number three, having famously lifted the 2009 US Open trophy.

Del Potro has now sent an emotional message to Djokovic after their match, with the former writing on Instagram, translated from Spanish: “Dear Nole, I don’t have enough words to thank you for everything you did for me since that day at the dinner in Miami, when you accepted this crazy idea of being part of my farewell in Argentina, despite your difficult season. From that moment until the day you left my country, you showed a generosity that I will never forget.

READ MORE: Juan Martin del Potro’s record vs Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer after 2009 US Open champion’s retirement

“I am eternally grateful to you, to Charly, to Mark and to your entire team for being available in every detail, in every need. You understood and comprehended the situation I was in, and you were the best companion, on and off the court, to make a farewell come true that I could not have imagined in my wildest dreams.

“Your presence not only made this event unforgettable for me and my family, but it transcended tennis. An entire country was able to enjoy and be moved by you, and it was clear that you are not only the greatest in the history of sport, but also in life. Argentina loves you, and we are eternally grateful for the show, the generosity and dedication you gave to make this day perfect.”

Juan Martin del Potro says what he has with Novak Djokovic will ‘last forever’

Djokovic certainly deserves plenty of credit for helping send Del Potro out with a smile, even if it was through plenty of tears.

Both players were emotional on the court, where they were at one stage joined by Gabriela Sabatini and Gisela Dulko.

READ MORE: Juan Martin del Potro makes ‘promise’ to supporters after he officially retires from tennis

And it was the home favourite who emerged victorious in Argentina, with Del Potro overcoming Djokovic 6-4, 7-5.

All grudges from their competitive rivalry have seemingly now evaporated, with the Argentine continuing his message: “I feel that something very special was born from all of this: a sincere friendship that will last forever. I love you so much, my friend. Thank you for so much, and see you soon.”