Novak Djokovic has earned her way to the top despite the massive roadblocks. The Serb was questioned at every step of the way, from becoming a rival to the dominant duo of Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer, to finally becoming an Olympic champion by beating much younger Carlos Alcaraz in the final.
Along the way, there were obstacles as well, including being deported from Australia for not being vaccinated against COVID-19 in 2022. The following year, he won his 10th Grand Slam in Melbourne Park.
On Sunday, Djokovic was presented with the inaugural Globe Sports Award at the 2025 Globe Soccer Awards ceremony in Dubai. Cristiano Ronaldo personally handed the honor to the 24-time Grand Slam champion. Before that, the Globe Sports Award presented a tribute award prepared by Ronaldo, highlighting the success seen by the Serb over the years while also throwing light on where he came from.
The tribute was given in the form of words, celebrating Djokovic’s journey from “blackouts” to “Australian Open deportation” to becoming a 24-time Grand Slam champion, the most in the sport by a men’s singles player.
Djokovic’s wife, Jelena, shared the tribute on her Instagram and added a savage reaction in the caption:
“#Nolefam what do you think? 😁 🥰 @djokernole Posnona!!”
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Novak Djokovic Feels Special Upon Receiving Award From Cristiano Ronaldo
Novak Djokovic said his dreams came true when Cristiano Ronaldo himself came on stage to honor the Serb with the inaugural Globe Sports Award at the 2025 Globe Soccer Awards ceremony in Dubai.
“It’s a great surprise. I am always caught off guard, but in a positive way,” Djokovic said. “Receiving this from Ronaldo is a dream come true. I am thankful to call him a friend and someone who always inspires.”
He revealed that both superstars motivate each other despite being in their late 30s.
“We are not part of the same sport, but we push each other,” he said. “Standing here together and talking about how sport can inspire children around the world is something we look forward to.”
Talking about the tribute video prepared by Ronaldo, Djokovic acknowledged the obstacles faced by athletes like him and Ronaldo before coming out on top.
“I think people are not aware of the trials and tribulations we face, and some of the words on screen awakened emotions in me,” he said. “We all aspire to be like our sporting heroes and hold trophies and accolades, but the trials and tribulations people go through are not always seen. This is not only [about] me, it’s all athletes.”
Novak Djokovic will soon be seen in action at the Adelaide International as he prepares for the upcoming Australian Open.
