’No Sorry’ – Novak Djokovic Demands Apology From Aryna Sabalenka in Playful Exchange at Wimbledon

Aryna Sabalenka and Novak Djokovic’s warm friendship has produced plenty of amusing moments, from their dance battles at the French Open to witty banter on social media. The duo put their camaraderie on display with another humorous exchange at Wimbledon, as the Serb playfully demanded an apology from Sabalenka.

Why Novak Djokovic Playfully Pushed Aryna Sabalenka for an Apology

After a disappointing third-round exit at the French Open, Djokovic has been gearing up to rebound at Wimbledon with the aim of finally clinching his record-extending 25th Grand Slam title. During his recent practice session at the All England Club, the Serb took mock offense after Sabalenka walked across his court without offering an apology.

After Djokovic voiced his complaint, the world No. 1 responded with a tongue-in-cheek apology, complete with an exaggerated bow.

“No sorry, no nothing. I’m sorry for stepping on your court. No nothing. It’s okay,” Djokovic said.

“I’m so sorry, Mr. Legend,” Sabalenka responded.

No. 7 seed Djokovic is set to face Wu Yibing in the first round of the grass-court Major. Speaking to the press ahead of his tournament opener, the 24-time Grand Slam champion offered an encouraging assessment of his physical condition and preparedness for Wimbledon.

“Yes, I think it is different in terms of just the overall physical state. I think I’m better prepared here than I was for Roland Garros. Obviously playing on grass, comparing to clay, you don’t need to exert as much physical effort. So that’s better for me. I always loved playing on grass. I have a very good score here, history, in Wimbledon. That gives me, of course, a higher dose of confidence coming into the tournament,” Djokovic said.

The Serb also revealed that it had always been his intention to “peak at Wimbledon” after a shoulder injury forced him to miss most of the clay-court season and hampered his preparations for Roland Garros.

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Meanwhile, top seed Sabalenka will kick off her campaign against qualifier Teodora Kostović. Having fallen short in the Australian Open final and suffering a quarterfinal exit at the French Open, the world No. 1 will be determined to make a strong start as she chases her maiden Wimbledon title.

Both Novak Djokovic and Aryna Sabalenka will play their opening matches on Monday, June 29. If Djokovic emerges victorious, he will face either Stefanos Tsitsipas or Hugo Gaston in the second round. Sabalenka, meanwhile, will await the winner of the match between McCartney Kessler and Oleksandra Oliynykova if she advances to the Round of 64.