AC Milan owner Gerry Cardinale reportedly contemplated enlisting the services of Novak Djokovic as the team’s psychological mentor, a strategic move that would have seen the world’s number one tennis player deliver motivational speeches to the Milan players.
Milan, a renowned Italian football club with a rich history in European football, clinched their 19th title in 2022. However, their bid for consecutive victories faltered as they finished fourth in Serie A last season. Currently, Milan holds the third position with 49 points after 23 games, trailing top-placed Inter by eight points.
Djokovic, a record-breaking 24-time Grand Slam champion, is an avid football enthusiast who openly expresses his unwavering support for his beloved team, Milan. When Milan encountered a less-than-ideal start to the 2023/24 season, team owner Cardinale began considering the possibility of approaching Djokovic and presenting him with an offer, believing that his involvement could enhance the team’s mental fortitude.
However, according to La Repubblica, Cardinale ultimately decided against pursuing this avenue, and discussions between the two parties never materialized.
Throughout the years, Djokovic has frequently expressed his deep affection for Milan. In 2014, he stated, “I am a devoted Milan fan, and that will never change. Football ranks second only to tennis in my heart. My father was a professional footballer, so we always watch the Rossoneri’s matches with great enthusiasm.”
In 2020, when Zlatan Ibrahimovic returned to Milan and played until his retirement in 2023, Djokovic’s bond with the former Swedish football star grew stronger. The Serbian tennis sensation was elated when Ibrahimovic made the decision to rejoin Milan, stating, “I am friends with Zlatan Ibrahimovic. We frequently discussed my situation in Australia, and he publicly supported me, which I deeply appreciate. As a Milan fan, we have high hopes of winning the Scudetto this year.”