Google News "There's a dark cloud over Novak Djokovic's head," Mike Nakajima's tough attack
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In a lengthy interview with CNN, Mike Nakajima, who has worked extensively for Nike, explained how Djokovic's tendency to get involved in controversies has a negative impact on his marketability. Nakajima told: "Novak Djokovic has a very good chance of becoming the most successful tennis player of all time, but there is always a new dark one hovering over him.
The ball at the line judge, the question of the anti-Covid vaccine and many others controversies. Why do these things always happen to Nole? It is clear that big companies prefer athletes who have a totally clear image." Mike also spoke about Roger Federer: "Federer has been a Nike athlete for almost his entire career, just like Michael Jordan, LeBron James and Tiger Woods.
Even today I am sorry that it happened like this, but it happened and we have to accept it. It wasn't my decision. Perhaps I would have done the same if I were in his situation. How do you turn down a $300 million contract? The truth is, it never should have come to that point."
Novak's start of the season
Novak Djokovic has started the season with a bang.
The Serbian phenomenon won the ATP 250 in Adelaide and above all the Australian Open, leaving only one set on the street at Melbourne Park. By capturing his tenth Down Under title, Nole tied his perennial rival Rafael Nadal at the top of the all-time Grand Slam rankings.
The 35-year-old from Belgrade also regained his position in the world rankings, ending the reign of Carlos Alcaraz, which began after the 2022 Us Open and lasted 20 weeks. Given Nadal's precarious physical condition, many believe that Djokovic can once again aspire to the Calendar Grand Slam.
Goran Ivanisevic's pupil had already come close to this titanic feat in 2021, stopping just one victory from the finish line. Despite winning the AOs without too much difficulty, Novak still ended up in the eye of the storm due to his left knee injury and images of his father Srdjan together with some Putin supporters.