Novak Djokovic has suggested tournaments like the Australian Open should bring in “nice dancers”.
The world No. 7 has long been interested in making tennis more popular and accessible for new audiences, and he has some ideas to bring entertainment to the game.
Inspired by other sports, Djokovic proposed bringing dancers onto the court in between each set to help him “relax his nerves”.
Djokovic was involved in a lively match on Rod Laver Arena on Friday night, beating Tomas Machac 6-1 6-4 6-4. While it was a largely routine performance from the Serb, he was interrupted by some rowdy fans.
The 37-year-old confronted a spectator but they later made up as Djokovic jokingly invited him for a drink during his post-match interview. And it got him thinking about other innovations to make tennis less serious.
“We have the history and tradition that we are proud of and makes our sport different from other sports,” he started.
“But at the same time, you know, I think we have been a little bit behind the other sports with changes and trying to keep the pace with the evolution of society and the new generation that we all know doesn’t have that much of a great attention span, and they want the movement.”
While Djokovic has struggled to get to grips with some innovations, like allowing fans to walk around during play, he had his own suggestions for things to bring to the game – including Super Bowl-inspired performances.
He continued: “So yeah, I think that we should try to look to connect more with the younger people and bring them. I want to see a little bit more entertainment.
“For example, why wouldn’t we consider doing something between the sets like the Super Bowl or, I don’t know, the NBA, right? When there is a timeout, they have, you know, dancers come in and this and that.
“I wouldn’t have problem with that. Nice dancers, you know, there for a few minute more break so I can relax my nerves and think about something else.”
While the 24-time Major winner is all in favour of making tennis more light-hearted, he still enjoys the traditions of Wimbledon.
“I feel like it would bring more fun element and entertainment to the tennis that we know has been quite traditional and maybe conservative in some things,” he added.
“When we talk about conservative, we know Wimbledon is the most conservative. But, for example, with Wimbledon I wouldn’t change much.
“I would keep it as it is, because it’s so unique, all white and strawberries and cream and everything about it is just so elegant and classy.”
Djokovic will face Jiri Lehecka in the fourth round of the Australian Open on Sunday. He’ll be hoping to stay relaxed on the court, even if there aren’t any dancers around to help him.
Content Source: www.express.co.uk