Juan Martin Del Potro decided to say goodbye to tennis with one final, special match and invited his longtime friend and tennis legend, Novak Djokovic, to join him. This farewell duel, called El Ultimo Desafio or “The Last Challenge,” will take place on December 1 at the famous Parque Roca stadium in Buenos Aires. Djokovic immediately accepted the invitation, promising fans an unforgettable match.
In an interview with La Nación, Del Potro shared an emotional story about how the agreement with Djokovic came about. They met during dinner in Miami, and Del Potro was thrilled by his friend’s quick and heartfelt response.
“Before the Miami Open, rumors were circulating about my farewell match,” Del Potro explained. “But I hadn’t seen Nole for a long time. Then one day in Miami, he called me and said, ‘Delpo, I know you’re here. Let’s have dinner and talk.'”
During dinner, they talked about life, tennis, and Del Potro’s plans for his farewell. Del Potro honestly told Djokovic that he was only willing to play this last match if Novak would be his opponent and support on the court.
Nole asked me if the rumors about my last match were true,” Del Potro recalls. “I told him that the only thing motivating me for this project is the idea that he would be there. Novak immediately said, ‘Count on me for anything you need.’ That was really emotional for me – he has a busy schedule, always playing and receiving many offers. Yet, he decided to come to Argentina to be with me. That really means a lot to me.”
This support that Djokovic gave him holds priceless value for Del Potro and shows how deep their friendship is. Throughout their careers, Del Potro and Djokovic were both rivals and great friends, and mutual respect and sportsmanship marked their relationship. This farewell match will be an opportunity to not only celebrate Del Potro’s career but also their shared journey through the world of tennis.
As December 1 approaches, fans eagerly anticipate the final appearance of these two champions and friends. It will be a moment to honor Del Potro’s achievements and the special bond between him and Djokovic – a friendship that is unforgettable, just like their duels on the court.
