Novak Djokovic previously spoke about Kate Midlleton at Wimbledon
Novak Djokovic previously spoke with Kate Middleton at Wimbledon(Image: Marleen Fouchier/BSR Agency/Getty Images)
Novak Djokovic previously shared a touching message about Kate Middleton after the pair crossed paths at Wimbledon. The Princess of Wales presented the tennis legend with his runner-up trophy two years ago.
Djokovic, who takes on Stefanos Tsitsipas in the second round on Wednesday, had fallen short against Carlos Alcaraz in the final for the second year running. The straight-sets defeat would have been difficult to stomach for the seven-time champion.
Yet, despite his fierce competitive streak, Djokovic displayed his compassionate side after speaking with Princess Kate during her battle with cancer. The Wimbledon final represented only her second public appearance since revealing her diagnosis in March 2024, before later confirming she had entered remission in January 2025.
Following the match, Djokovic delivered a message of support to Kate, who has served as patron of the All England Club since 2016. “Yes, it was of course a privilege to be in her presence again,” Djokovic said when asked what he had told the royal.
“I’ve said to her that it is very nice to see her in good health. She seems to be in good health.
“That’s obviously very positive news for everyone in this country but also for Wimbledon, for Championships to have Her Royal Highness here, of course with her family members. It’s amazing. It’s incredible support they’ve been giving over the years to this tournament.”
“I know that she and her sister have played tennis for a very long time. So they truly respect, admire the game.
“They also understand tennis, which is great. It’s wonderful to have that kind of support from the Royal Family.”
Djokovic spoke to the Princess of Wales after the 2024 Wimbledon final(Image: Visionhaus/Getty Images)
Djokovic remains on the hunt for his coveted eighth Wimbledon title, a feat that would see him draw level with Roger Federer’s tally and claim an outright record 25th Grand Slam triumph. The 39-year-old booked his place in the second round at SW19 with a battling victory over Wu Yibing.
The Serbian star hit back at the Wimbledon crowd after spectators began supporting his opponent. His reward is a second round clash against familiar foe Tsitsipas.
The duo have faced off in two major finals, including the 2021 Australian Open, where Tsitsipas’ father Apostolos was accused of being disrespectful in his reaction to Djokovic’s win.
Stefanos recently decided to part ways with his dad as his coach ahead of Wimbledon. The 27-year-old has won just two of his last 14 encounters with Djokovic.
