NOVAK DJOKOVIC was lined up for a shock career change by AC Milan.
The Serbian, 36, has cemented his place as the GOAT of tennis.
AlamyNovak Djokovic’s mental strength has seen him gain attraction from other sports[/caption]
He holds countless records, most notably a stunning 24 Grand Slams and 410 weeks as the world No1.
But as well as his incredible shot-making ability and outrageous movement around the tennis court, Djokovic built his epic success on his incredible winning mentality.
And that reputation as one of the strongest brains in sport reportedly led to surprising interest from football.
According to to La Repubblica newspaper, AC Milan owner Gerry Cardinale genuinely considered making an approach to employ Djokovic just three months ago.
Cardinale wanted the tennis legend to be the club’s new mental coach.
The role would have seen Djokovic using his experience to work with the players struggling for confidence and even giving motivational speeches.
But despite the interest, no talks took place between the Milan fan and the Milan owner.
Djokovic has attended plenty of matches at the San Siro over the years, is friends with Zlatan Ibrahimovic and met Rafael Leao and Ismael Benacer at the ATP Finals in Turin last November.
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Ironically, though, it was AC Milan support Jannik Sinner that dumped him out of his beloved Australian Open.
Djokovic was eyeing a record-extending 11th crown Down Under and got to the semi-finals thanks to a stunning never-seen-before shot against Taylor Fritz – despite various rows with fans at Melbourne Park earlier on.
Djokovic was outplayed comprehensively by Sinner in the final four, before the Italian star came from two sets down to beat Daniil Medvedev in the final.
The seven-time Wimbledon winner knows he is approaching the end of his tennis career.
But he certainly has his fair share of ventures to move into when he does eventually retire.
Djokovic recently launched a series of electrolyte hydration cubes in partnership with Waterdrop.
He also has his own foundation and has been linked with a transition into politics – although he could choose to enjoy the calmer life making the most of his various luxury houses around the world.
GettyDjokovic posed for a photo with Rafael Leao ahead of the Champions League semi-final in 2023[/caption]
GettyHe is an avid support of the San Siro giants[/caption]