Francesco Maestrelli, backstory on exchange of banter with Novak Djokovic

Francesco Maestrelli took the loss to Novak Djokovic that interrupted his fairy tale at the Australian Open well: “At the handshake I told him “thank you for the lesson,” and he said “thank you, it was a good match.” He told me he had fun playing against me and I had fun too. It was almost a miracle to stay on the court as long as possible on such an incredible stage. It was beautiful”.

And again: “Walking onto the field with all those people was an incredible feeling. I tried to focus on myself, even though he is an amazing person. Despite the result, I think I played a good game. I tried to follow my ideas of play and the work done with the team, and partly I succeeded. Then, when he raises the level, it gives you the feeling that nothing can work: it happens to me, but I think also to many others”.

“I am happy, but at the same time I am a little bit pissed off, because I don–t like to lose, he finally admitted.”

I don&#8217t come off the court just happy for playing against someone like him: I would have liked to win. This is a great starting point, though. It was a great experience”.