'We have a similar story' - Cristiano Ronaldo presents Novak Djokovic with Globe Sports Award
Updated 28/12/2025 at 21:35 GMT
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The Globe Soccer Awards saw a crossover of superstars as Cristiano Ronaldo and Novak Djokovic shared the stage when the latter was presented with the Globe Sportsman of the Year award by the former. The football legend and tennis icon shared plaudits with each other. Djokovic will continue his hunt for a record-extending 25th Grand Slam at the Australian Open - live on TNT Sports and discovery+.
'I couldn't be happier' - Ronaldo presents Djokovic with Globe Sportsman of the Year award
Video credit: TNT Sports
Cristiano Ronaldo and Novak Djokovic shared the stage at the Globe Soccer Awards in Dubai on Sunday, where the tennis star was awarded the Globe Sportsman of the Year award.
Ronaldo presented the Serbian with the award, and they both gave high praise to each other as Djokovic accepted the title.
Ballon d'Or winner Ousmane Dembele won the Men's Player of the Year at the ceremony, held iin Dubai on Sunday.
Ronaldo, the Portuguese footballing legend, who has vowed to reach 1,000 goals as he accepted the award for Middle East Player of the Year, called Djokovic "an example".
Ronaldo said: "For me, he's an example. When you have people as examples, the awards come by themselves. His longevity, we have a similar story.
"So I think he deserves it because he's a great example for this generation, the old generation, the generation that's going to come. He deserves it."
A delighted Djokovic said: "It's a great surprise. To be here is a privilege, and receiving an award from another sporting legend is a dream come true.
"I'm a big fan of football. I came here to celebrate the incredible year that everyone is having and I was caught off-guard, in a positive way. I couldn't be happier."
Both have been at the top of their sport for the last two decades, and in the twilight of their careers, share obvious similarities in chasing specific goals before the sun sets on them.
Whilst Ronaldo is gunning for 1,000 career goals, Djokovic is hoping for a record-extending 25th Grand Slam and will go for glory at the Australian Open, which is live on TNT Sports and discovery+.
The 38-year-old also reminisced on meeting Ronaldo when the latter played for Real Madrid, explaining that even then, he served as a source of inspiration.
"When he was at Madrid he would show up at the Madrid tournament, and it would be an added pressure but also an inspiration for us to do our best," Djokovic said.
"He was ruling the world at the time, and he still keeps going. I'm very thankful to hear these words from him and also thankful to call him a friend, and someone who really inspires me."
Djokovic's hunt for a 25th Grand Slam will continue in Melbourne, where he has previously won an incredible 10 titles. His last Grand Slam title came at the US Open in 2023.
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Djokovic added: "When I wake up in the morning at 38, and I try to find motivation after playing the highest level of professional tennis for more than 20 years.
"Your body is aching and you're questioning whether you want to keep going, you see the example of Cristiano and what he's been trying to do.
"There's a lot of similarities and parallels we can draw. We are not part of the same sport, but we push each other, that's how it feels.
"We are showing future generations that there's no limit. The level of dedication, love, and passion for the game really builds an unbreakable motivation, and transcends your sport. Something that touches younger people's hearts that are dreaming to become like you one day.
"Standing here with him and talking about love for the game sends an incredible message to kids around the world.
"We want to see them play tennis or football or any other sport that can lead them to a healthier, better life. I'm proud to be standing here with him on stage."
Watch and stream top tennis action, including the 2026 Australian Open, live on TNT Sports and discovery+
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