A Divided Court: Stakhovsky Highlights Djokovic’s Support Amidst Silence from other Tennis Icons
Ukrainian tennis player Sergiy Stakhovsky, currently ranked 228th in the world, recently shared WhatsApp messages from Novak Djokovic, the world No.2, revealing the Serbian’s offer of financial and practical assistance in the wake of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. This gesture stands in stark contrast to the silence Stakhovsky has encountered from other tennis giants like Rafael Nadal (ranked 4th) and Roger Federer (ranked 27th).
Stakhovsky, who achieved a career-high ranking of 31st in 2010, expressed his gratitude for Djokovic’s support on social media, posting a screenshot of the messages alongside the caption: “Thank you for your support. Ukraine thanks you.”
In the messages,Djokovic expresses concern for Stakhovsky’s well-being,inquiring if he is still in Ukraine and assuring him that he is thinking of him. Djokovic also expresses hope for a swift resolution to the conflict and offers to send financial aid or any other form of assistance.
The 36-year-old Stakhovsky, who is currently in Kyiv and has joined the ukrainian army, has been actively documenting his experiences on social media, sharing images of fellow soldiers and the realities of life in a war-torn city. In a recent interview with The Print, Stakhovsky lamented the lack of vocal support from other prominent tennis players, specifically mentioning Nadal and Federer.”I tried to reach out to them, but I was unsuccessful,” Stakhovsky revealed. “While I understand their reluctance to get involved,it’s disappointing that they choose to remain silent. This isn’t their war, but the support of influential figures is crucial, and I hope it continues.”
Stakhovsky’s experience highlights the complex and often polarized reactions to the conflict in Ukraine, even within the seemingly unified world of professional sports. While Djokovic’s gesture offers a glimmer of hope and solidarity, the silence from other tennis icons underscores the challenges of navigating a global crisis that transcends national borders and personal allegiances.
