Cristiano Ronaldo reveals what he really thinks about Novak Djokovic

On Sunday, December 28, Novak Djokovic was honoured as the inaugural winner of the Globe Sports Award. Football legend Cristiano Ronaldo handed the Serb his trophy and revealed what he truly thinks about the 24-time Grand Slam champion.

On Sunday night, Djokovic was in Dubai to attend the 16th edition of the Globe Soccer Awards, which celebrates the best players of the soccer world. During the ceremony, the tennis star was named the winner of the Globe Sports Award, an honor that acknowledges lifetime athletic achievements across any sport. As he handed the Serb his trophy, Ronaldo heaped praise on the tennis star and his ‘example,' saying (via Yahoo Sports):

“I think it is, I don't want to speak so much, I prefer that I (don’t) speak, but for me it is his example. When you have people as an example, he speaks the words coming by himself. So for me (he is an) example (in) longevity. We have a similar story. So I think he deserve (the award) because he is a great example for this generation, all generations, the generation (that) is going to come. So he deserves this.”

Novak Djokovic and Cristiano Ronaldo are both legends in their respective sports. While the former is the most successful men's singles player the world of tennis has ever seen, the latter is the top goalscorer of all-time in men's international football.

Novak Djokovic opens up about his relationship with Cristiano Ronaldo

Djokovic at the 2025 Joy Forum (Image Source: Getty)

Novak Djokovic and Cristiano Ronaldo share a close bond with each other away from the tennis court and football field. As he received the Globe Sports Award, the Serb reflected on his relationship with the Al-Nassr FC megastar and revealed that the duo go back a long way, having met when Ronaldo was still playing for Real Madrid. (via Pro Football Network):

“We go back a long time. When he was playing in Real Madrid, he would be coming to watch the tournament in Madrid and obviously for us, every time he showed up, it would be an added pressure, but also an inspiration to try to do our best. He was ruling the world at that time and he still keeps on going. So, you know, I'm very thankful to hear these words from him and also thankful to call him friend and someone that really inspires me as well.

On the tennis end of things, Novak Djokovic wrapped up his 2025 season with a title finish at the Hellenic Championships. The 38-year-old is now scheduled to return to action at the Adelaide International, which will take place between January 12 and 17.