Tennis fans got a dose of unexpected humor ahead of Wimbledon as Novak Djokovic took a cheeky swipe at fellow tennis star Aryna Sabalenka during a lighthearted moment at the All England Club. As both athletes gear up for one of the sport’s most grueling Grand Slam tournaments, their pre-tournament practice session took a comical turn when Djokovic jokingly branded Sabalenka as “a hindrance.”
While the remark was clearly in jest, it gave fans a glimpse into the camaraderie and relaxed atmosphere that occasionally bubbles up behind the scenes of the intense world of professional tennis. Sabalenka, who recently returned from what many described as a “boozy holiday,” appeared to take the comment in stride as the two stars shared laughs during their workout on the grass courts of SW19.
The lead-up to Wimbledon is always an intriguing time, with top players refining their form while balancing rest, recovery, and preparation. For Djokovic, a seven-time Wimbledon champion, these final days before the main draw are all about fine-tuning his legendary precision and pacing himself for the physical and mental demands of the tournament. The Serbian icon has his eyes set on adding yet another Grand Slam to his already historic career tally.
Sabalenka, meanwhile, is also looking to make a deep run on the grass — a surface that presents its own unique set of challenges. Known for her power and aggression, the Belarusian star has become one of the most formidable forces on the women’s tour. While grass hasn’t traditionally been her strongest surface, recent seasons have seen her make significant improvements in adapting her game to its quick pace and low bounce.
The moment between Djokovic and Sabalenka was more than just a funny exchange — it reflected the mutual respect between two elite competitors and their ability to stay loose amid the high stakes. In fact, moments like these are often rare during the pressure-filled Grand Slam season, and it was refreshing to see two top-tier athletes enjoying the sport and sharing a laugh, even if only briefly.
Despite the jokes, there’s no doubt both Djokovic and Sabalenka are dialed in. Wimbledon is not just any tournament — it’s the crown jewel of tennis, with its rich traditions, pristine grass courts, and intense competition. Every player knows that to go the distance here, they must be physically primed and mentally razor-sharp. The two-week grind demands relentless focus, strategic brilliance, and unwavering discipline — both on and off the court.
For Djokovic, this edition of Wimbledon represents another chance to cement his legacy further. For Sabalenka, it’s an opportunity to solidify her place among the sport’s elite and prove she can thrive under the unique pressure and conditions of the famed tournament.
As Wimbledon kicks off, fans can expect nothing short of thrilling battles, unforgettable moments, and perhaps — if we’re lucky — a few more playful jabs between tennis’ brightest stars. Whether it’s Djokovic’s wit or Sabalenka’s fearless firepower, the 2025 Championships are already off to an entertaining start — and we haven’t even hit Day 1.