Novak Djokovic had a special supporter in attendance for his French Open final on Sunday as Tom Brady was spotted in his player box. The pair have a good relationship and the NFL star would have received a personal invitation to join Djokovic’s camp on Court Philippe-Chatrier.
Djokovic is hoping to make history at the French Open as he faces Casper Ruud. With a victory, the world No 3 would become the first man ever to win a record 23 Grand Slam titles – surpassing Rafael Nadal who holds 22.
In his quest for a 23rd Major, the Serb appears to be drawing inspiration from another sporting icon in Brady. The quarterback attended the final but had a special seat as he was seen in Djokovic’s box alongside the third seed’s wife Jelena.
The pair could be seen in conversation as the 36-year-old started his campaign for a third French Open crown. Djokovic has previously revealed that he often speaks with Brady often as a source of guidance.
In 2021, Djokovic told Tennis Majors that he often confided in Brady among others. He said: “I was close with Kobe Bryant, as well as Monica Seles, Andre Agassi and Boris Becker, who were my coaches, and Pete Sampras.
“I have spoken often with them, and I speak with Tom Brady frequently about training and recovery. I make an effort to make use of the opportunity to share something with all sportsmen and sportswomen, things that aided me or hindered me, and I ask questions, especially to those who have reached the pinnacle of their sport.”
While Djokovic has arguably already reached the pinnacle of tennis, he will be hoping to cement his position at the top on Sunday. As well as having 23 Majors to his name, a win would also make him the first man ever to win all four Grand Slams at least three times.
The 36-year-old has played for the men’s singles Grand Slam record once before – at the 2021 US Open. At the time, it would have been a 21st Major title and would have seen him complete the Calendar Grand Slam.
He suffered defeat to Daniil Medvedev but is ready to have another shot at history. “Pressure is always on my shoulders, so it’s not going to be different. But it’s part of my sport, part of my life, all that I do,” he said after the semi-final.
“I think that having pressure is a privilege. But it’s a source of motivation, as well. Great motivation to play well and to reach Sunday.”
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