Hilarious Wimbledon moment: Djokovic interrupts Sabalenka interview with surprise pep talk

Novak Djokovic made an unexpected appearance at Aryna Sabalenka’s news conference on Saturday at Wimbledon, injecting humor and a dose of candid critique.

The seven-time Wimbledon champion jokingly interrupted the top-ranked Belarusian as she wrapped up her media duties, urging her to hurry up so he could take over the podium.

From interviewee to interviewer

Instead of stepping aside, Sabalenka seized the moment and flipped the script, becoming the interviewer. “What did you think about hitting with me?” she asked Djokovic, referring to their recent practice session at the All England Club. “How do you see my level? Am I good?”

Djokovic’s lighthearted review

Djokovic, who holds a record 24 Grand Slam titles, replied with a grin: “I think you have the potential. You're like a really talented player.” Then, in a mock-serious tone, he added: “Can I be honest? You're lacking intensity on the court. It's too flat. You've got to lighten up a little bit and put some power into it.”

The room erupted in laughter at the playful jab, a nod to Sabalenka’s reputation as one of the fiercest hitters in women’s tennis.

A tradition of press conference hijinks

This isn’t the first time Djokovic has taken part in such antics. In 2011, it was Caroline Wozniacki who crashed Djokovic’s own press conference, playfully grilling him with questions. That year, Djokovic went on to win his first Wimbledon title, while Wozniacki exited in the fourth round.

Opening matches ahead

Djokovic begins his quest for an eighth Wimbledon crown on Tuesday against France’s Alexandre Muller. Sabalenka is scheduled to play Carson Branstine on Monday.