Novak Djokovic: If I Could Go Back In Time I’d Love To Play Sampras And Try To Return His Serve

Defending champion Novak Djokovic improved his win streak to eight after a 62, 63 win over Kevin Anderson yesterday at the BNP Parisbas Open at Indian Wells.

In the post-match, Djokovic was asked who he’d most want to play if he could go back in time in tennis history. And the World No. 1 responded declaring Pete Sampras would be his pick.

“Pete, for sure,” Djokovic said. “I would love to return that serve.

“He has been my idol, and I had that privilege to meet him couple of times and discuss tennis, as you can expect,” Djokovic added. “He gave me some really great advices, you know, from his own experience when he became No. 1 and what it took him to stay there for a long time.

“We have kind of a similar careers, you know, rankings‑wise, and so it was a very valuable experience for me to sit down and chat with him. Unfortunately never had an opportunity to hit with him and to play an official match. But, look, you know, I would love to. At least an exhibition match would be a satisfaction.”

So at there peak, who would win Djokovic or Sampras?

Djokovic, who’s had allergy problems in the past, said despite a virus hitting the tournament he’s been fine all week. In the fourth round tomorrow Djokovic will play Spaniard Pablo Andujar.