Novak Djokovic in a chat with Sania Mirza has said that he wants young kids from India to take up tennis as a profession.

“I wish to be part of some programs designed particularly for the development of kids in their early childhood because that is something, I’m very passionate about,” he said.

“That is also the cornerstone of our foundation. I would like to see more children grabbing a racquet and playing tennis. Being a tennis player, seeing that happen will fill my heart with joy,” he said.

During an earlier interview Djokovic has spoken about his admiration for Indian cricketer Virat Kohli.

“I feel I have a special connection with India. I love the people there; they have been very kind to me and are one of the most genuine and gentle people in the world. They love their sports with cricket being the most followed obviously. But tennis, as I understand, is followed great across the country too.”

He also recalled about an exhibition match that he participated in 2014 in New Delhi along with Roger Federer and several other tennis legends.

“Hopefully, there are many years ahead of me so that I can spend more time in your beautiful country and we can work on the mission of empowering more kids to take up tennis,” he concluded.

Djokovic will face France’s Adrian Mannarino in the fourth round of Australian Open 2024 on Sunday.