Yugoslavian actor revealed secret story of how Novak Djokovic got to keep a Ronaldo jersey due to their pact

Novak Djokovic has many friends. From Zlatan Ibrahimovic to Tom Brady the Serbian superstar has built camaraderie with sportsmen from different games. He even maintains relationships with people outside of sports such as when he was seen chatting with Rita Ora during the Rugby World Cup Finals.

In one particular instance, the 36-year-old showed how much he values his friendships when after a long gap in meeting his buddy, the Serb managed to keep his memory impact and close a pact the two had made years ago.

Actor revealed Novak Djokovic anecdote involving Ronaldo jersey

Novak Djokovic met Serbian actor-comic Sergej Trifunovic in the early 2000s when he was an upcoming player in the tennis circuit. The pair would share a love for football and had many fun times together watching their favourite teams play.

Novak Djokovic edited
Novak Djokovic with Sergej Trifunovic, via X.com

Sergej was recently on the ‘Balkan Rules’ podcast where he revealed insightful details into what made Novak Djokovic a champion according to him and credited his winning mentality and amicable nature as the reasons.

“I have a Ronaldo jersey from Real Madrid that I gave to Novak Djokovic for his 20th birthday. I gave it to him when he was 14th in the world. I gave Ronaldo‘s to Djokovic and I told Djokovic like this. Look, we have an agreement, the man behind the camera does not sleep and everything is recorded. So, I said to Djokovic: Look… After his look, this is how you have the jersey with only one agreement – if you never become the first in the world to return it to me,” Trifunovic said.

Sergej then recounted how Djokovic would succeed in his endeavour and remarkably keep track of the pact despite years gone and many responsibilities undertaken.

“A year has passed, I’m in Skopje shooting a movie and watching Wimbledon when he finally becomes the first on the list and world champion. And he eats grass and I don’t know what. It’s been 30 minutes, I’m watching on some small TV, I said ‘wow‘. I received a message after 35 minutes: Now I deserve the jersey, smiley,” said Trifunovic.

Novak Djokovic’s favourite football team

As a Serbian fan of football, Novak Djokovic fervently supports his local club Crvena Zvezda (red star belgrade). He has been seen attending many matches in his home country including a recent match in the Champions League.

However, Djokovic also has an international football club close to his heart. Despite showering appreciation for Manchester United and Real Madrid, Novak Djokovic has said AC Milan is his favourite club.

“I’m a big fan of Milan and I’ll always be. For me, football is second only to tennis. My father was a professional footballer and at home we always watch the Rossoneri’s games with great interest,” Djokovic said.

Novak AC
Novak Djokovic with AC Milan players, via X.com

In 2022, Novak Djokovic revealed his support for the team and his friendship with Zlatan Ibrahimovic.

“I’m a Milan fan and we hope to win the Scudetto this year,” he said.

In May this year, the 24-time grand slam champion was in San Siro to catch the Champions League game between AC Milan and rivals Inter Milan.

What are your opinions on Novak Djokovic’s heart-warming gesture to his friend? Let us know in the comments section below.

Dwarakesh Murali

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