Novak Djokovic, now a celebrated multiple Grand Slam champion, had a vastly different experience during his debut in a Grand Slam match.
Currently competing at the Miami Open, Djokovic is on the quest for his historic 100th ATP career title.
At 37 years old, Djokovic is facing a title drought, with his last title coming during the Paris Olympics.
His most recent Grand Slam victory is even further back in time, with his win at the US Open in 2023, which established significant tennis history.
Marat Safin’s Words to Novak Djokovic Following Their First Match
During his journey toward qualifying for his first Grand Slam main draw at the 2005 Australian Open, a young 17-year-old Djokovic faced Stan Wawrinka.
In his first-round match, Djokovic drew the fourth seed and two-time finalist Marat Safin. Unfortunately, this initial main draw appearance did not go well for Djokovic, as he lost to Safin in just 75 minutes on Rod Laver Arena.
Safin clinched the match with a score of 6-0, 6-2, 6-1, and the two shared an extended embrace at the net following the match.
Post-Match Insights from Marat Safin
In his post-match press conference, Safin mentioned that Djokovic had apologized to him, although Safin found it unnecessary given the match’s outcome.
“I mean, he came and said, ‘Sorry’,” Safin recounted. “I don’t know why he said sorry because it was so easy. But he tried everything. He put forth his best tennis, but I just played pretty well. I told him he’ll be a great player – and he will be.”
Safin acknowledged Djokovic’s potential, expressing hope for his long future in the sport if he continued to work diligently.
Djokovic’s Future Success Following That Loss
Despite the setback, Djokovic later secured his first Grand Slam main draw win at his next opportunity, defeating American Robert Ginepri at Roland Garros.
While Safin advanced to reach his third final at the Australian Open before winning the tournament, Djokovic went on to achieve remarkable success in his career.
A Reflection on Their Career Paths
They would face each other again three years later at the Wimbledon, with their roles reversed in terms of career success.
By then, Djokovic had become a Grand Slam champion while Safin’s ranking had slipped to number 75. Yet, Safin managed to defeat Djokovic in straight sets, despite Djokovic’s progress since their first encounter.
After this match, Djokovic remarked on the differences between their first encounter and their latest, recognizing his growth and maturity as a player over the years.
Although Safin reached the semi-finals in that Wimbledon tournament, he retired the following year, while Djokovic continued to thrive and fulfill Safin’s early prediction of great success, with his remarkable 24 Grand Slam titles to date.
