Matteo Arnaldi, the highly regarded Italian tennis player ranked No 37 globally, has opened up about his deep admiration for Novak Djokovic. His love for the 24-time Grand Slam champion runs deep, with Djokovic's remarkable 2012 Australian Open final win over Rafael Nadal holding a special place in his heart.

Italian Tennis Star's Idol Worship

Tennis Journey and Djokovic's Impact

Arnaldi embarked on his professional tennis career in 2019. Despite not having faced Djokovic on the ATP Tour yet, his respect and admiration for the Serbian star are evident. In a recent interview with GQ Italia, he expressed his passion for the sport and his habit of watching numerous matches on TV. "I like tennis just as I play, and I watch a lot of matches on TV too. In fact, my team sometimes has to tell me to take a break!" he shared. Djokovic has been his idol since childhood, and this admiration has only grown stronger over the years.

2012 Australian Open Final: A Turning Point

The 2012 Australian Open final between Djokovic and Nadal was a momentous event. Djokovic's marathon victory, with a scoreline of 5-7, 6-4, 6-2, 6-7 (5), 7-5, left a lasting impression on Arnaldi. "One of the matches that I was most passionate about was the 2012 Australian Open final, Nole against Nadal," the Italian added. "Even though I have a predilection for the Serb, it's impossible not to recognize that with Federer and Nadal, those three have achieved something truly special. Their legacies in the sport are unparalleled."

Respect for All Tennis Greats

Arnaldi's respect for Djokovic extends beyond just his idol. He also holds Nadal and Roger Federer in high regard. "Each of these players has made significant contributions to tennis, and their impact is felt worldwide. Djokovic's dominance, Nadal's tenacity, and Federer's grace have all inspired generations of tennis players. I am grateful to be part of this rich tennis history," he said. His words highlight the respect and admiration he has for the entire tennis fraternity.