Novak Djokovic played his first match at this year's Australian Open yesterday, and in the Serbian tennis player's box was a famous football name - Juan Mata.
The Spaniard has played for Valencia, Chelsea, Manchester United, Galatasaray, Vissel Kobe, Sydney FC, and has been a member of Melbourne City since last season.
"It was a real pleasure to see him and thank him for coming. It's an honor to have such a champion, a man who won the World Cup and major trophies with Spain, with various clubs in Europe," Djokovic began.
Djokovic says he will try to return the visit during his day off at the Australian Open.
"We didn't have a chance to meet after the match, but we've been following each other for many years. He's a veteran in his sport too. I know he's playing here now. I don't know what the match schedules are, if he's playing for Melbourne Victory, if I'm not mistaken. Well, I'll try to maybe return the support on a day off. It would be nice," said Djokovic.
In an interview with Sport Klub, Mata said that if someone has the chance to watch Djokovic, then they must do so.
"I hope he enjoyed it and thank him for giving such compliments," concluded Djokovic.
Djokovic defeated Pedro Martinez (3:0) in the first round of the Australian Open, and will play Italian Francesco Maestrelli in the second round on Thursday.
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