Novak Djokovic, a figure who often divides opinions, undeniably possesses the ability to win the hearts of people. Take, for instance, his gesture before Juan Martin del Potro's farewell match over the weekend. Former US Open champion Del Potro, forced to retire in 2022 due to a severe knee injury and denied a proper farewell, asked long-time rival-turned-friend Djokovic, 37, to travel to Buenos Aires and participate in one final match dubbed 'The Last Challenge'. Djokovic accepted and went the extra mile to ensure Del Potro had the best send-off possible. Among the 15,000 spectators at Parque Roca stadium was an Argentinian woman named Silvina living in Djokovic's native Serbia.

Paying it Forward: Djokovic's Kind Gesture

In an interview with OLGA, Del Potro explained that Djokovic had paid for Silvina's trip to the Argentine capital after learning she couldn't afford it. Interrupting Djokovic, Del Potro said, "He won't tell you, but if he lets me, I will. There's a girl from Argentina who went to live in Serbia many years ago and has been his fan since day one. He had the opportunity to meet her, and she wanted to come here to say goodbye. She had some problem and couldn't, so Nole managed to contact her again, called her again and paid for everything and she attended the match today. She came to Argentina and enjoyed this match." This act showcases Djokovic's kindness and thoughtfulness.The match between Djokovic and Del Potro ended 6 - 4, 7 - 5 in favor of Del Potro. Del Potro was emotional throughout and broke down in tears at the net after securing the second set. A huge cheer went up from the crowd as Djokovic gave his opponent a big hug before parading him around the arena. "Like everyone here in this stadium, I am very emotional today," the 24 - time Grand Slam champion told the crowd. "I am also grateful for being able to play with my friend, with a great person and a great player, as well as a great rival. It is a very special day for me too. I do not know a person who does not love Juan Martin del Potro. Everyone loves him very much. I come from a country that has a culture with those values, that defines a person by how they behave and the professionalism they have, but it is always important to have respect and feel that life in the eyes, in the heart, in the soul."

Del Potro's Tennis Legacy

Del Potro was one of just two players to win a Grand Slam singles title other than the 'Big Four' (Djokovic, Federer, Rafael Nadal, and Andy Murray) between 2006 and 2020. His sole triumph came at the 2009 US Open when both Federer and Nadal were at the peak of their powers, and he managed to beat both of them on his way to victory. Unfortunately, injuries curtailed much of his career after that, but he nonetheless went on to reach three more Grand Slam semi-finals and another US Open final in 2018, where he was beaten in straight sets by Djokovic. His impact on the tennis world is significant, and his story is one of perseverance and talent.

Tributes and Farewell

Del Potro also received video tributes from Roger Federer and Gael Monfils. Federer, who retired in 2022, said, "I hope the people in Argentina are celebrating with you and that you are having a special moment with Novak. I wish I could be with you, but I want you to know that I am thinking of you right now, and I wish you the best." These tributes highlight the respect and admiration Del Potro has earned in the tennis community. His farewell match was a momentous occasion, filled with emotions and memories that will be cherished by all. Djokovic's role in making this farewell special added another layer to the event, further solidifying his place in tennis history.