Tiny jacket detail that proves ruthless mentality
It would surely be arrogant to think Novak Djokovic was expecting to win a 22nd grand slam when he arrived in Melbourne a fortnight ago.
But when he pulled on a custom-made jacket with a sparkling silver “22” emblazoned on the breast following Sunday’s victory, one had to wonder. His Australian Open win drew him level with Rafael Nadal for all-time major wins, 22.
When he was asked about by James Bracey on Nine’s post-match coverage, Djokovic simply blushed and tried to divert from the topic.
But Jim Courier was under no illusions as to the significance.
”We always discuss the fact that do the players care about the numbers and the records,” Courier queried.
“The jacket said it all tonight. It was something he was aspiring to. Novak unabashedly wants all the records.”
The detail in the jacket was not missed by fellow players on Twitter.
“The jacket with 22 on it is elite energy… haha, I love it,” said Nick Kyrgios.
Daria Saville said, “Novak is already wearing a jacket with 22 on it!”.