Sachin Tendulkar was in awe of the moment shared by Steve Smith and Novak Djokovic as the stars would engage in a fun battle ahead of the Australian Open 2024.
Sachin Tendulkar was left in awe of seeing Steve Smith and Novak Djokovic engage in a fun battle ahead of the Australian Open.
In a captivating display of cross-sport talent, Smith left tennis maestro Djokovic spellbound with his adeptness on the tennis court during a pre-Australian Open charity event at Melbourne Park. The Australian cricketer, known for his prowess on the cricket field, demonstrated that his athletic skills extend beyond the boundary ropes.
The exhibition match, which also featured Australian athlete Peter Bol, was one of several charitable engagements leading up to the commencement of the Australian Open on January 14th. The crowd at Rod Laver Arena witnessed a light-hearted yet competitive exchange between the sports stars, with Smith showcasing his quick footwork and sharp reflexes.
Game respects game!
(And Novak is just like the rest of us when it comes to Smudge…)@stevesmith49 • @DjokerNole • #AusOpen • #AO2024 pic.twitter.com/ioL8hjVSrF
— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 11, 2024
Djokovic, who has claimed 24 Grand Slam titles, served up a challenge to Smith with a gentle serve directed at him. Smith, with remarkable agility, sidestepped and returned the ball cleanly back into play, much to the astonishment of Djokovic.
The tennis champion was so taken aback by the cricketer’s skillful return that he chose not to attempt another shot, instead offering a gesture of respect to Smith’s unexpected tennis flair.
While Djokovic’s prowess on the tennis court is undisputed, his foray into cricket during the event was met with less success. Attempting to wield the cricket bat, Djokovic swung and missed, a stark contrast to his usual precision with a tennis racquet. Yet, when he reverted to his familiar tool of trade, Djokovic managed to send the ball soaring into the stands, delighting the spectators with his power.
The battle would earn praise from Tendulkar, who would say that it was great to see two accomplished sportspersons having a wonderful moment.
“Beautiful to see two accomplished sportsmen having a moment. The score is ‘love-all’,” tweeted Tendulkar.
Beautiful to see two accomplished sportsmen having a moment. The score is ‘love-all’. 🏏🎾@stevesmith49 @DjokerNole https://t.co/AiTQojfXwe
— Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) January 12, 2024