"I'll 'pass' on being lovers"- Novak Djokovic hilariously responds to Andy Murray as Brit relives their bond with heartfelt message

World No.2 Novak Djokovic has responded to his friend, fellow tennis professional Andy Murray's post on his Instagram story, in a humorous exchange between the two. Murray, on the cusp of the final match of his professional career at the Paris Olympics, had posted a message on his account celebrating the two legends' rivalry and friendship.

Murray shared a series of photos from moments that the two greats shared over the many years of their on-court rivalry, captioned:

"Rivals, doubles partners, friends, and lovers? Thanks for the 25 years of competition, @djokernole, and good luck for the rest of your career."

Murray's playful comment, referring to himself and the Serbian as "lovers?", was accompanied by a note "see slide 3". In the said photo, the two have been captured close to each other in the frame. Djokovic, known for his wit and frequent media interactions, responded through his Instagram story:

"Andy, I loved playing against you, playing doubles together and sharing some great memories as friends. I will 'pass' on being lover. I hope you understand. What an amazing career, legendary. Thank you for inspiring all of us players and many people all over the world,"

With Murray and Djokovic not facing one other at the Olympics due to the Brit withdrawing from the singles event, it appears the two iconic players have played their last match against each other. Their rivalry began in their junior years, with the two facing off 36 times between 2006 and 2017, and Djokovic winning 25 of those encounters.

Reflecting on their journey together, Djokovic had shared his thoughts on Murray's impending retirement before the start of the Games. He had hoped for Murray to have the best possible farewell in his last match at the Olympics, for himself and his country. He also acknowledged Murray as a legend of the sport and an important figure for tennis globally.

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Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal on course for face off in second round of Olympics in potential 'final dance'

Laver Cup 2022 - Previews - Source: Getty

Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal are on the brink of another historic clash as they may face off in the second round of the Paris Olympics 2024. After dominating Matt Ebden 6-0, 6-1 in the opening round, Djokovic's sights are set on a potential 'final dance' with his longtime rival Nadal. He expressed his thoughts on the match-up in a pre-match interview, saying,

"Everyone wants to see that last dance between us and I'm looking forward to it,

Nadal, a 14-time French Open champion, is set to face Hungary's Marton Fucsovics in his first round. He expressed his excitement about his Roland Garros return, saying that this was his most special tennis place.

The head-to-head between Djokovic and Nadal stands at 30-29, indicating how closely fought their rivalry has been. As this potential last match between the two looms large, both players will be hoping to turn in their best performances and move to the next round. Their last game saw Nadal win in four sets in the quarterfinals of the 2022 French Open.