It was an emotional night in Buenos Aires on Sunday as Novak Djokovic helped Juan Martin del Potro say goodbye to his tennis career.
The Argentine tennis star beat the 24-time Major winner in his final match and both men immediately broke down in tears.
They shared an emotional embrace at the net and Djokovic couldn’t help but cry as he watched his old rival take in the atmosphere.
Del Potro retired in early 2022 after failing to return from a severe knee injury. But the former world No. 3 wanted the chance to have a positive parting memory on a match court after his heartbreaking goodbye at the Argentina Open almost three years ago.
Djokovic granted his wish, flying to Argentina for Del Potro’s farewell match, dubbed ‘The Last Dance’. Fans packed out the Parque Roca stadium to see the former US Open champion in action one final time.
The 36-year-old was emotional throughout the match but he broke down after winning 6-4 7-5 and came to the net for a warm hug with Djokovic, crying into his arms.
The Serb made sure Del Potro got the send-off he deserved, parading him in front of the crowd before standing on the sidelines at his bench and tearing up as he joined the standing ovation.
Del Potro walked into the middle of the court and placed his bandana over the net as he said farewell to tennis. The 22-time title winner returned to his own bench and sat down, soaking up the applause.
Djokovic then paid tribute to his former foe, admitting the emotions also got to him. “Like everyone here in this stadium, I am very emotional today,” he said.
“I am also grateful for being able to play with my friend, with a great person and a great player, as well as a great rival. It is a very special day for me too.
“I do not know a person who does not love Juan Martin del Potro. Everyone loves him very much.
“I come from a country that has a culture with those values, that defines a person by how they behave and the professionalism they have, but it is always important to have respect and feel that life in the eyes, in the heart, in the soul.”
Del Potro also received video tributes from his other old rivals Roger Federer and Gael Monfils.
Federer, who retired in 2022, said: “I hope the people in Argentina are celebrating with you and that you are having a special moment with Novak. I wish I could be with you, but I want you to know that I am thinking of you right now, and I wish you the best.”
