Serena Williams vs Venus Williams: Novak Djokovic ‘thankful’ to avoid sibling battle
NOVAK DJOKOVIC says he is “thankful” he does not have to battle against a sibling ahead of Serena Williams’ clash with sister Venus.
The two Williams sisters kick-start the US Open night session on Arthur Ashe Stadium at midnight (BST) tonight.
It is the first time the American stars have gone head-to-head since Serena gave birth to her daughter, Alexis Olympia Ohanian Jr.
The pair will meet for the 30th time in their careers but former world No 1 Djokovic struggles to apprehend what it would be like to battle a sibling.
“I don't know how they do it honestly,” Djokovic said after his second-round win against Tennys Sandgren.
“I have utmost respect for both of them. I have two younger brothers.
“I was kind of imagining what it would be like if I had to play one of them. I mean, I don't know really.
“Thankfully I won't experience that because I don't know if I would be able to kind of be that fierce competitor against my brother.
“But they manage to do it. They play, as you say, 30 times. That's something that it's really impressive.
“As I said, respect. Respect for both what they have done in their careers and to see them play at their age still, keep on going. It's inspirational really for all of us.”
Serena is one of the favourites to win the tournament but she is playing down the reunion with her sister.
“I wouldn't say it's exciting,” she said.
“But it's definitely going to be a really tough match for me. Once again, it's early in the tournament. You know, it is what it is.
“I never root against her, no matter what. So I think that's the toughest part for me. When you always want someone to win, to have to beat them.
“I know the same thing is for her. When she beats me, she always roots for me as well.
“I think that's just the hardest part.”