Cricket News

WATCH: Novak Djokovic and Steve Smith turn centre court into cricket pitch ahead of Australian Open 2024

Tennis legend Novak Djokovic and cricketing legend Steve Smith were in the Rod Laver arena ahead of the Australian Open 2024. Notably, the first major tournament of 2024 will be starting in the next 3 days. However, before it, there was a charity match arranged at the centre court, where Novak Djokovic and Steve Smith had arrived. The two stars of the respective sports got to interact with each other in front of a packed house.

In addition, a huge crowd had gathered to watch the two and were happy with the event. Notably, the Tennis icon was asked to play cricket on the Tennis court. He was asked to bat as some of the hosts bowled him with the Tennis ball. However, in the first attempt, the Serbian totally missed the ball and failed to connect it.

The move of Novak Djokovic had the crowd in bits. Notably, the world number 1 got his racquet and kept it along the net. However, as the bowler got to his run up to deliver the ball, Novak Djokovic exchanged the cricket willow with his tennis racquet. Meanwhile, this change in equipment did wonders for the star player as he connected the ball which travelled into the stands. The fans in the stadium let out a huge cheer as they caught the ball.

Watch the full video here:

Novak Djokovic bows down to Steven Smith.

– Two of the greatest playing Tennis…!!!pic.twitter.com/kvsPhvJN4y

— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) January 11, 2024

Novak Djokovic aims to better his record

However, as he timed the ball well with his racquet, Novak Djokovic was visibly delighted. Meanwhile, the star cricketer was impressed by the shot of the star Tennis player and congratulated him. It was a good moment between the Tennis player and Australian cricketer as two different sports personalities came together for a noble cause. Novak Djokovic is in Australia for the first major Grand Slam event of the year, the Australian Open 2024.

The 36-year-old is the biggest Tennis star currently playing. Notably, he has several records to his name including a record 10 titles at the Australian Open, the most for a men’s singles player. Novak Djokovic has the most number of men’s singles Grand Slam titles at 24.