14 January,2024 02:00 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Novak Djokovic and Virat Kohli. Pics/AFP
The 24-time Grand Slam champion and tennis legend Novak Djokovic said that he has been in touch with India's cricketing star Virat Kohli.
Djokovic also said that he has known Kohli for a few years now and he admires him a lot. Further he added, that while he has not had the opportunity to meet an Indian batter, he has been lucky enough to communicate with one.
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In the lead-up to the Australian Open 2024, tennis legend Djokovic has been making headlines with his fitness and determination at the age of 36.
The tennis legend revealed that he has a good friendship with Virat Kohli and has been having conversations with him for several years. He also complimented India's cricketing star on his wonderful career and also thanked Kohli for his kind words towards him.
Speaking to Sony Sports, Djokovic said, "Virat Kohli and I have been texting a little bit for a few years and we never got the chance to meet in person. But it was really a privilege and honour to listen to him speak nicely about me and I obviously admire his career and achievement and everything he has done."
Ahead of the 25th Grand Slam title up for the grab, Djokovic said that his admiration for India and what drives him to achieve great things every day.
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Novak expressed his thoughts on his last visit to India which was ten years ago. He has planned to visit India soon to again see its beauty, history and many other things.
"I have been to India only once so far in my life. It was, I think, 10 or 11 years ago. I came to play an exhibition event in New Delhi for two days. It was a very short stay. So, I really hope that I will be able to come back in the near future, too, because I have a great desire, great wish to explore your beautiful country that has so much history, so much culture to offer to the world and spirituality as well. It's amazing," the 36-year-old continued.
Ahead of the Australian Open, Novak will clash with Croatian Dino Przmic in the first round on Sunday.
On the other hand, India's star batter Kohli Kohli is set to return for the second T20I against Afghanistan in Indore on Sunday after missing the opening match of the series due to personal reasons.
(With ANI Inputs)