NO RESPECT! By Javier Palenque

Rodney Dangerfield, a name synonymous with the catchphrase "I don't get no respect," carved out a niche in the comedy world by playing the hapless underdog. His persona resonated with audiences who found humor in his perpetual struggle for recognition. Fast forward to the world of tennis, and a similar narrative unfolds with Novak Djokovic, a player who, despite his immense success, often finds himself in the shadow of Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal—two figures who, in the court of public opinion, seem to embody the suave, heroic image of James Bond.

Roger Federer, with his effortless grace, impeccable style, and endless repertoire of shots, is often compared to the likes of James Bond. His career has been a masterclass in elegance, both on and off the court. Federer's fluid movement and cool demeanor evoke the image of 007 gliding through a casino in a tailored tuxedo. His sportsmanship and media-friendly persona have only cemented this image, making him a darling of the tennis world and beyond.

Rafael Nadal, with his fierce competitiveness and relentless energy, represents a different but equally compelling vision of the hero. If Federer is Bond in a tuxedo, Nadal is Bond in action—muscular, relentless, and utterly committed. His raw power and indomitable spirit have made him a symbol of perseverance and passion. Nadal's humility and genuine personality further endear him to fans, solidifying his place as a beloved figure in tennis lore.

Enter Novak Djokovic, a player whose achievements rival and even surpass those of Federer and Nadal. Despite his record-breaking feats, Djokovic has struggled to receive the same adoration. Some of this perception stems from his intense on-court demeanor and a series of controversies that have marred his career. In the eyes of some fans, Djokovic’s sheer competitiveness and occasional outbursts paint him more as a Bond villain than a hero. But make no mistake he is simply the GOAT and certainly my favorite player.

Djokovic's background also plays a role. Coming from war-torn Serbia( most Americans could not find it on a map), his journey to the top was fraught with challenges that starkly contrast with the smoother paths of Federer and Nadal. This gritty backstory, while inspiring, has sometimes been culturally overlooked in favor of the more glamorous narratives surrounding his rivals. In the end, these fabulous players are a product, and Swiss or Spanish products elicit some sort of comfort and trust while a product from Serbia is unknown to the masses.

The media plays a significant role in shaping public perception, and it is driven by what is a better cultural fit. Federer and Nadal have been marketed as the epitomes of grace and sportsmanship, while Djokovic’s narrative has often been tinged with controversy and conflict. This dichotomy has fueled the “villain” label, despite Djokovic’s numerous philanthropic efforts and moments of humility.

In reality, the “villain” label is a gross oversimplification. Djokovic, like Federer and Nadal, is a complex individual with a multifaceted personality. His dedication to the sport, his resilience, and his remarkable talent deserve equal recognition. The narratives we construct often fail to capture the true essence of these athletes, reducing them to mere caricatures and products.

Rodney Dangerfield’s plight of "no respect" humorously mirrors the more serious narrative surrounding Novak Djokovic. While Federer and Nadal bask in the glow of the hero’s spotlight, Djokovic’s villainous perception remains a puzzling anomaly. As fans and observers, it’s crucial to appreciate the nuances of each player's journey and celebrate their contributions to the sport without resorting to simplistic labels. In the end, tennis, much like life, is richer and more rewarding when we honor the complexity of its protagonists, especially those who break all historical records. To accomplish what Novak did is simply amazing and tomorrow he may get his 25th grand slam and his eighth Wimbledon trophy. WOW!

I have a suggestion to solve this perception problem for Novak. I have a job for the GOAT, the moment he retires, he can be the perfect fit and have a broader and greater influence on the sport than all his titles put together or that of the other two greats combined. Global Commissioner of Tennis.

The mission of the job is to grow the game globally, one part of which is the professional game. The bigger part is to get more kids playing and competing all over the world. The job is waiting for you Novak, you are the only candidate that can fulfill the mission. The world and sport will thank you for it and then people will open their minds and give you the respect that you were always due, that of the greatest of all time.

We can grow the game for all.

I can be reached at [email protected]