By Richard Pagliaro | Monday, June 28, 2021
Tennis is a global game with fascinating family ties.
Fifteen years ago, former LTA chief executive Roger Draper tried recruiting Novak Djokovic for British citizenship with the aim of creating a British superstar squad of Djokovic and Andy Murray.
More: Djokovic Dives to 15th Straight Wimbledon Win
Today, Djokovic launched his Wimbledon title defense drilling 25 aces in a 4-6, 6-1, 6-2, 6-2 triumph over British wild card Jack Draper, the 19-year-old son of Roger Draper.
The world No. 1 scored his 15th straight Wimbledon win and said afterward he hadn't realized Roger Draper was the executive who held discussions with his parents about Djokovic potentially becoming a British citizen.
"I do not know who at that time was discussing the potential citizenship for me with my dad, because my dad and my mom, they were discussing with people from LTA," Djokovic said. "To be honest, I did not know. I was also surprised with what I read about Jack's father."
The 19-time Grand Slam champion said the LTA made an offer that featured financial support, but ultimately his family did not want to leave Serbia.
"Yeah, it's kind of an interesting information," Djokovic said. "But there's not much to say about that. It was a very long time ago.
"Yeah, we did get an offer. There was some discussions, but it was very short because I and my parents did not want to move from Serbia, even though it was very challenging economically to sustain a career of a professional player."
Reigning French Open and Australian Open champion Djokovic praised the 19-year-old Draper's potential after the teenager's maiden major appearances.
"He's tall, he's strong. He's got that lefty serve that is very awkward for right-handed players to face, particularly on grass," Djokovic said. "I thought he was behaving nice on the court. I mean, he was backing himself. He was trying his best. Obviously I think I raised the quality and the level of my tennis in the second set. I felt like I had things under control.
"But nevertheless, he had a crowd behind him. Was a really nice atmosphere. I think he's got an all-around game really. A very good flat backhand, also a good forehand. Maybe his movement could improve I think. Probably can and should move a bit better. But he's still young. There's always room for improvement. But he's got a very good base, I would say."
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