I think Novak Djokovic is one. He's toned down the over-the-top celebrations, he's showing more respect, applauds players good shots (he's done that for a long time), improved his time wasting (ball bouncing) between points and almost always gives a good net hug.
I know most here didn't watch the match, but Del Potro didn't call a very obvious double bounce on himself on an important point against Rhyne Williams in the 1st round of the AO this year. The chair umpire missed it and DelPo accepted his call.
I think Novak Djokovic is one. He's toned down the over-the-top celebrations, he's showing more respect, applauds players good shots (he's done that for a long time), improved his time wasting (ball bouncing) between points and almost always gives a good net hug.
Djokovic has improved but I'm sorry you're never going to win a sportsmanship when you have in the past torn apart your shirts in victory celebrations. that is the exact opposite of the definition of classy
Nadal should if anyone should. whether you believe it or not or claim he's just an act he certainly tries to behave respectfully and humbly on court.
I can't think of another player besides Nadal who I have no memory of destroy a racket or any article of tennis property. he is legendary regarding his sportsmanship and good attitude on court
Nadal should if anyone should. whether you believe it or not or claim he's just an act he certainly tries to behave respectfully and humbly on court.
I can't think of another player besides Nadal who I have no memory of destroy a racket or any article of tennis property. he is legendary regarding his sportsmanship and good attitude on court
Have we all forgotten about Djokovic deliberately cheating Murray in Miami? His excuse afterwards was hideous.
The answer is Murray. The man had been giving his opponents free points to avoid controversy this year. Just checkout the Verdadsco and Monfils incidents.
Djokoking conceded a big point against Gulbis at the french this year--even Gulbis was stunned. Not the first time that No1e's done this. Djokovic doesn't care about Miami at this point, and it was a misunderstanding with Murphy.
I'd give this award to a lower ranked player (I don't like the fact that they tend to focus on top players) but given that it usually does go to a top player, I can very well picture Djokovic or Murray getting that award one year too.
To be fair, as bad as he has been a winner (at times) over the years, he's been, for almost as long, an extremely gracious competitor.
From turning over points to applauding winners to passing out compliments like muffins from a hand-basket.
When topics like sportsmanship and professionalism come up, I'll never forget the way he and Roddick treated each other at the '09 AO just after their fallout months prior.
All that said, I think Del Potro easily takes the cake.
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