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Đoković praises Serbia and Albania for fair play in tense Tirana showdown

8. June 2025
Novak Đoković (foto: Screenshot)
Novak Đoković praised Serbian and Albanian players for sportsmanship during a tense World Cup qualifier in Tirana that ended 0–0.

Novak Đoković publicly commended the sportsmanship displayed during the World Cup qualifier between Serbia and Albania, which ended in a goalless draw in Tirana.

Despite the tense atmosphere and provocative chants from home supporters, players from both sides handled the match with maturity, a fact that did not go unnoticed by the Serbian tennis star.

Đoković took to social media to share a collage of three photos, highlighting a noteworthy moment of respect between Albania captain Berat Gjimshiti and Serbia striker Dušan Vlahović, with the Atalanta defender seen helping the Juventus forward who was struggling with cramps.

“Respect and fair play are always an option! Big bravo to both teams for their behavior,” Đoković captioned the post.

The symbolic gesture was widely appreciated by fans, considering the political and historical tensions between the two nations. For once, football became a platform for unity rather than division.

Serbia currently sits fourth in Group K after one match. Their next qualifier is scheduled for Tuesday in Leskovac, where they will face Andorra, the group’s bottom-placed side after three matches.

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