Alcaraz revealed that Djokovic demanded serving royalties from him, while Sabalenka broke Djokovic’s record and playfully awaits his mixed doubles invitation.

In the Australian Open men’s singles fourth round, top seed Alcaraz beat 19th seed Paul 7-6(6), 6-4, 7-5, achieving his fifth straight victory over him and advancing to the Australian Open quarterfinals for the third consecutive year. His upcoming opponent will be Deminair.

During the post-match sideline interview, when the host pointed out that Alcaraz’s serve looked very similar to Djokovic’s and asked why he made such a change, the young Spaniard responded with a smile.

Alcaraz casually said, “It’s actually quite funny. Someone recorded a video during practice, and I realized my serve really looks a lot like his.” He further revealed that Djokovic even sent him a message joking about it: “He messaged me directly, saying I owe him ‘serving royalties’ before the match.” Then I said, “Of course, no problem, I’ve got the ‘contract’ right here! But the thing is, I still haven’t met him in person yet.”

This charming interaction between the legend and the future king highlights the friendly and relaxed atmosphere bridging generations in tennis. When the host asked if Djokovic really sent that message, Alcaraz confirmed, “Yes, he specifically messaged me. It’s fun to have such moments in the locker room.”

Meanwhile, women’s world No.1 Sabalenka achieved a 20-match winning streak in Grand Slam tiebreaks during the Australian Open, breaking the record previously held by Djokovic. After the match, Djokovic appeared in Sabalenka’s social media comments and said, “I’m really angry now.”

This episode reminded people of the friendship between the two and naturally sparked speculation about whether they might team up for mixed doubles. A fan commented, “Last year at the US Open, Djokovic half-jokingly invited Sabalenka. Seeing their affectionate interactions online and offline now, I really hope they get the chance to partner up. Will it happen? Fingers crossed.”

Sure enough, at the post-match press conference, when asked about this, Sabalenka responded with her characteristic frankness and humor:

“Maybe at this year’s US Open (laughs). I’m still waiting. He only asked me briefly last year at the US Open. I’m still waiting for him to send me a little essay explaining how much he wants to play with me and that I’m his dream partner. So I’m waiting for that message. Haven’t received it yet. I don’t know, maybe we won’t play together (laughs).”

This playful “call-out” passed the ball back to Djokovic about whether they will partner up, teasing fans eagerly.

Regarding these anecdotes, tennis commentators and fans smiled knowingly. Tennis columnist Simon Briggs commented on the interaction between Alcaraz and Djokovic: “These exchanges are priceless. They break the stereotype that top athletes are always in fierce rivalry. Djokovic ‘collecting debt’ from Alcaraz is a form of recognition and playful teasing from a senior to a promising junior, making tennis feel more human and warm.”

Sports psychologist Emma Wallin analyzed the interaction between Sabalenka and Djokovic from another perspective: “This kind of public, lighthearted interaction helps reduce pressure during major tournaments and creates a more multi-dimensional public image for players. It also sends a message to young fans that top-level competition and mutual respect can coexist.”

On social media, fans eagerly joined the “fun interaction.” About the “royalties,” one joked, “So funny! If Alcaraz really wins the Australian Open, he definitely has to pay Djokovic a hefty serving royalty as thanks.” Another said, “Asking for royalties isn’t too much; after all, he learned from a predecessor, so paying some tuition fee makes sense. And from what we see, this serve suits Alcaraz well. Hope he does great at this year’s Australian Open.”

Regarding the “mixed doubles agreement,” some fans joked, “Sabalenka: waiting for a little essay. Djokovic: waiting for a partner who won’t break my records.” Others said, “Please, let them team up at the US Open! That would be a ‘cosmic-level firepower’ on the mixed doubles court!” Some urged, “Djokovic, hurry up and write that essay! I want to see the strongest serving duo ever! But Sabalenka’s sense of humor is already top-notch; just imagining them as partners is hilarious enough!”

In the tennis world’s pursuit of speed, power, and victory, these witty and kind jokes act like lubricants and adhesives on the court. They connect stars from different eras and genders, adding warmth and charm beyond the intense competition. Whether Djokovic will really write a “little essay” for Sabalenka, or how Alcaraz will “pay” the serving royalties, might become a unique highlight fans look forward to in future tournaments.(Source: Tennis Home, Author: Lu Xiaotian)