Advertisement

Young boy jokingly proposes to Novak Djokovic, settles for practicing with him instead

Novak Djokovic was in the midst of a routine U.S. Open practice session on Sunday when a boy in the stands interrupted with what had to be the last question the Serbian tennis star expected to hear

"Djokovic, will you marry me?" the boy jokingly shouted.

A marriage proposal from a male voice caught Djokovic by surprise enough that he peered into the stands to see if he could determine the source. The boy then ran down the steps to the railing along the court, which elicited a chuckle from both Djokovic and the rest of the crowd that had gathered.

Djokovic could have easily ended the moment there and returned to his practice session, but what he did instead shows why he's among the more beloved players in men's tennis. Ever the showman, Djokovic invited the young fan onto the court, handed him a racquet and allowed him to take a few serves.

Skeptics on the Internet are already claiming the moment was staged, and perhaps it was considering the video quality and camera work seems a little too perfect. Regardless, this is still a heartwarming moment.

At best, it's an example of the spontaneity and generosity of a man who has won five grand slams at age 25. At worst, it's a publicity stunt that still enabled a young fan to meet his idol on one of tennis' most famous courts.

The joy the boy showed at having that opportunity is something that can't be faked.

(Thanks, Deadspin)

Other popular content on the Yahoo! network:
The Nets' new $1 billion arena is already completely covered in rust, by design
Forde-Yard Dash: A new season of college football is upon us
Evander Holyfield, Mike Tyson continue to joke about 'Bite Fight'
Y! News: The Washington Nationals: Finally, something that works in this town