While Novak Djokovic might be looking to defy father time in his bid for a record 11th Australian Open title, he has taken the time to make a big impression on a young cancer survivor.
On the Serbian’s historic run to the Australian Open final, the 38-year-old carved time in his busy schedule to meet 12-year-old cancer warrior Imogen.
‘When I was eight years old I was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia,’ Imogen said.
‘It was really hard to get through but eventually I’ve made to here – and I’m good now.
‘Now I do a lot of awareness and fundraising and stuff to get the word out. To help other kids.
She lists her favourite player as Djokovic, who heard about the young tennis fans fundraising efforts and survival story at the Aussie Open.
Novak Djokovic has defied his age of 38 to reach the final of the Australian Open once again
During his run to the final the Serbian star took time out to meet 12-year-old cancer survivor Imogen
Imogen became emotional meeting her favourite tennis player, who said he would be happy to be her mentor
So he put Imogen up in his own box at Rod Laver Arena to watch the tennis, meeting her afterwards in a life-changing exchange.
‘I heard a lot about you,’ Djokovic said after greeting her with a warm hug.
‘You did really well, it was a really good match,’ she said.
‘I’m really, like, speechless.
‘What does tennis mean to you?’ she asked the Serbian superstar.
‘That is a really good and deep question,’ he replied.
‘In a sense it means everything because I’ve dedicated my whole life to it.
‘If you really like it, I recommend it. I will be happy to be your mentor. We should hit some tennis balls.’
Djokovic will be vying for a record 11th Australian Open trophy against Spain’s Carlos Alcaraz
Djokovic then signed a number of items for the young fan and took her out to the court for a hit.
It was a gesture that impressed tennis fans, who said it was a regular occurence for Djokovic to meet with young players and inspire them.
‘I hear stories from young players all the time about how he spent time with them, FaceTimed them, followed them on Instagram, etc,’ one commented.
‘he’s incredibly generous with his time and energy. The goat of compassion and empathy. Maybe that’s why he’s so good on court.’
Another added: ‘What a top guy. He made that beautiful soul’s day.’
‘This is truly wonderful. Her joy at meeting her favourite player is great to see,’ posted another.
Djokovic rated his epic Australian Open semi-final triumph over Jannik Sinner among his greatest ever wins after it put him within touching distance of an unprecedented 25th grand slam singles crown.
Djokovic was twice down a set and appeared physically ill during the third set against the two-time defending champion Sinner at a rocking Rod Laver Arena on Friday night.
But the 38-year-old Serbian legend wound back the clock and dug deep to post a momentous 3-6 6-3 4-6 6-4 6-4 victory, which see-sawed for four hours and nine minutes and ended at 1.32am in Melbourne.
‘I wouldn’t dare to call it finest ever, but it’s definitely the finest in the last couple of years,’ Djokovic told reporters.
‘Under the circumstances, semis against Sinner, who has been playing the best tennis of his life the last couple of years, particularly here, two-time defending champion, it doesn’t get better than this.’
