Recently, Novak Djokovic was present in Dubai, UAE, to attend the 16th Global Soccer Awards ceremony, where he was honored as the winner of the Globe Sports Award - a new award introduced to honor lifetime sports achievements.
When Ronaldo awarded the prize to Djokovic, he praised Djokovic profusely. According to the Portuguese football superstar, the journey to the top between him and the Serbian player has similarities.
Ronaldo shared: "For me, Novak is a role model of perseverance. Our story has similarities. I think he deserves this award because he is a great role model for this generation and the next generations. He deserves these things.
Ronaldo and Djokovic are two of the iconic athletes of the sports world. While Ronaldo is currently approaching the milestone of 1,000 goals, this Serbian tennis player is considered one of the most successful tennis players of all time.
In his tennis career, Djokovic has owned the most Grand Slam titles (24), held the world No. 1 position for many weeks, the most year-end championships and the most Masters 1000 cups. In addition, the tennis player born in 1987 also completed the "Golden Slam" after winning the Olympic gold medal in Paris in 2024.
Djokovic's legacy far exceeds cups and shows perseverance, adaptability and an unremitting desire to pursue perfection.
At the age of 38, Djokovic still has no intention of retiring. He said: "I will continue my career. I like to play tennis, like to compete. As long as you really feel like you are playing at a high level and your body is still energetic, then why not compete?".
The Serbian tennis player is preparing for the Australian Open 2026, the first Grand Slam of the new year. This is a tournament where he has won 10 times, the last time was in 2023.
