PARIS: Novak Djokovic said he gave away his French Open winning racquet to a young boy watching courtside for “giving me the right tactics”.
The world number one claimed a 19th Grand Slam title and became the first man in 52 years to win all four majors twice when he came from two sets down to beat Stefanos Tsitsipas 6-7 (6/8), 2-6, 6-3, 6-2, 6-4.
At the end of the four-hour-11-minute final, the 34-year-old Djokovic handed his racquet to the youngster who was then pictured on TV jumping for joy and in shock at the gesture.
This kid’s reaction when Djoker gives him his racket is everything https://t.co/uc2mA1BXbv— Will Brinson (@WillBrinson) 1623605356000″He was in my ear the entire match basically, especially when I was two sets to love down.
He was encouraging me.
He was actually giving me tactics, as well,” said Djokovic.
A gift to a great supporter ?#RolandGarros | @DjokerNole https://t.co/F04a5UDNQr— Roland-Garros (@rolandgarros) 1623612638000″He was like, ‘Hold your serve, get an easy first ball, then dictate, go to his backhand.’ He was coaching me literally.
A moment they will NEVER forget ❤#RolandGarros https://t.co/wa9CUzta0N— Roland-Garros (@rolandgarros) 1623606715000″I found that very cute, very nice.
So I felt like to give the racquet to the best person was him after the match.
That was kind of my gratitude for him sticking with me and supporting me.”