Steve Smith Leaves Novak Djokovic Stunned In Viral Video From Australian Open 2024

Australian Open 2024: Novak Djokovic delivered a gentle serve aimed at Steve Smith's body, and the Australian cricketer showcased his remarkable footwork to skillfully evade the ball.

Novak Djokovic was left stunned by Steve Smith's return in a viral video from Australian Open 2024. ( Image Source :Screengrab From Video On X/@AustralianOpen )

Steve Smith showcased on Thursday (January 11) that he is not only a great on the cricket field but is also adept on the tennis court. The star Australian batter put on display his tennis prowess at the Australian Open 2024 during a charity match, leaving an impression on 24-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic. The Australian cricket star participated in an exhibition match at Melbourne Park with Djokovic, where his remarkable shot in response to Djokovic's serve garnered admiration and video of the same is making rounds on the internet. This exhibition tennis match between the cricket star and the tennis champion served as a prelude to the Australian Open 2024, scheduled to begin on January 14.

Novak Djokovic delivered a gentle serve aimed at Steve Smith's body, and the Australian cricketer showcased his remarkable footwork to skillfully evade the ball. Not only did Smith avoid the shot, but he also managed to hit a return that landed perfectly inside the court. Djokovic, genuinely impressed by Smith's move, didn't attempt another shot. Instead, he praised Smith and even bowed down to acknowledge the impressive return from the cricket star. This special moment delighted the fans who were in attendance, witnessing the unexpected display of skills from the cricket sensation on the tennis court.

Game respects game!

(And Novak is just like the rest of us when it comes to Smudge...)@stevesmith49 • @DjokerNole • #AusOpen • #AO2024 pic.twitter.com/ioL8hjVSrF

— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 11, 2024

Djokovic is presently organizing an event at Rod Laver Arena, Melbourne Park as part of the Opening Week of the 2024 Australian Open (14-28 January)
titled "Novak Djokovic and Friends." This event features the 24-time Grand Slam champion exploring various sports and engaging in friendly competitions. Following the tennis match, the duo switched from tennis racquets to a bat and ball, playing a game of cricket on the court.

Djokovic, who secured three major victories in the previous season, boasts a record-breaking total of 24 major titles and enters the Australian Open on a remarkable 28-match winning streak at the season's inaugural major.

Steve Smith To Open In Tests

Meanwhile, Steve Smith is preparing for the upcoming home Test series against the West Indies, set to commence on January 17 (Wednesday). In a notable change, Smith is scheduled to open the innings for Australia in the Test format, partnering with Usman Khawaja. This move comes after David Warner's retirement from Test cricket earlier this month.