Novak Djokovic offered a touching 22-word statement about Kate Middleton after receiving his runner-up trophy from her at the 2024 Wimbledon final. The Serbian tennis star, who lost to Carlos Alcaraz in straight sets for the second consecutive year, expressed his joy at seeing the Princess of Wales in good health amid her cancer battle.
Djokovic's Words of Encouragement
Speaking after the match, Djokovic said: "Yes, it was of course a privilege to be in her presence again. I've said to her that it is very nice to see her in good health. She seems to be in good health." He added that it was positive news for the country and Wimbledon to have her support, noting that she and her sister have played tennis for a long time and understand the game.
The Wimbledon final marked only Kate's second public outing since revealing her cancer diagnosis in March 2024. She subsequently announced she had entered remission in January 2025. Djokovic, 39, acknowledged her role as patron of the All England Club since 2016.
Djokovic's Wimbledon Campaign
Djokovic continues his pursuit of a record eighth Wimbledon title, which would match Roger Federer's haul and give him an outright 25th Grand Slam victory. He secured his place in the second round with a hard-fought win over Wu Yibing, hitting back at the crowd after spectators rallied behind his opponent.
His next match is against old adversary Stefanos Tsitsipas, whom he has faced in two major finals, including the 2021 Australian Open. Djokovic leads their head-to-head 12-2, with Tsitsipas winning only two of their last 14 meetings. Tsitsipas recently split from his father as coach ahead of Wimbledon.
