Cristiano Ronaldo Presents Sports Award to Novak Djokovic | Globe Soccer Awards 2025 | bein Sports

Cristiano, this is a big moment, isn't it? Tell us a little bit more about how it's come about and why it's so important to you. Well, it's important because, as people know me, I'm a people of challenge. And football is our life, it's my life. But for me, sports means more than only football. For me, this is a new era. So we have to open our minds to other sports. This is why we created this amazing award, in my opinion. And because the world needs to see different things with huge quality. You obviously got into football because you loved playing the game. But was there a moment where you really realised its power and the power of the superstar? As I told you before, I love football. But I like other sports as well. I like other personalities. I learn with other people, with other sports. And it's always good to learn with other things. And when we hear this award, we're thinking about that. To create a new era. And this is what we're looking for. And for me, it's a big pleasure. It's the first time ever this trophy coming out. And for me, it's great to be part of this. So shall we enter this new era? Let's find out the first ever winner of the Globe Sports Award. Tonight, the world stands still for Novak Djokovic. Come and stand in the middle. Congratulations. This is a bit of a surprise for you, isn't it? To be here present tonight is a privilege and an honour. Obviously, receiving an award from another sporting legend is a dream come true. Honestly, I wasn't expecting this. I'm a big fan of football. I came here to celebrate the incredible year that all of the football stars were having. And I was caught off guard, but in a positive way. So I couldn't be happier. And Cristiano, what is it about Novak that you see when you look at him and what he does? I don't want to speak so much. I prefer that I speak. But for me, it's this example. When you have people as an example, the words come by themselves. So for me, it's an example of longevity. We have a similar story. So I think he deserves it because he's a great example for this generation, the old generation. The generation that's going to come. So he deserves it. Because your relationship actually goes back quite a few years. I know you've been seen watching Novak play tennis. Where did you first meet? It's a good question. We go back a long time. When he was playing in Real Madrid, he would be coming to watch the Madrid tournament. And obviously, for us, every time he shows up, it would be an added pressure. But also an inspiration to try to do our best. And obviously, he was ruling the world at that time. And he still keeps on going. So I'm very thankful to hear these words from him. And also thankful to call him a friend. And someone that really inspires me as well. Not to repeat his words, but it's really the same way for me. When I still wake up in the morning and I try at 38 to find motivation after playing the highest level of professional tennis for more than 20 years. And your body is aching and you're questioning whether you want to keep going after you achieve everything. And you're very blessed to achieve everything in this sport. And then you see the examples of Cristiano and what he's been trying to do. So as he mentioned, there's a lot of similarities, a lot of parallels that we can draw. And really, in a sense, even though we're not part of the same sport, but we're kind of pushing each other. That's how it feels. And I think we are also showing to the future generations that there is no limit. Something like in my sport, when I was starting to play professional tennis, when you reach the age 30, you start counting your days. I guess it's similar with football. You have to start planning your retirement. But it's not the case nowadays. And I think that's due to many different factors. But I think the level of dedication, love and passion for the game really builds an unbreakable motivation. And something that really transcends your sport. Something that really touches younger people's hearts that they are dreaming to become like you one day. So really standing here with him and talking about just the love for the game. I think in general for the sport that really sends incredible message to out there, to all the kids around the world. Because we all want to keep them off the streets. We all want to see them play tennis, play football or any other sport that can really lead them to a healthier, better life. So I'm just proud to be standing here obviously with him on stage. You both got these targets. Cristiano, you talked about number 1000, another couple of goals last night. Congratulations. Who is going to get to the target first? Your number 25 or your 1000? How about together at the same time? That would be nice. Toe to toe. Cristiano, thank you for now very much indeed. Novak, don't go anywhere because Cristiano has prepared a little video for you. Can I just usher you this way? Ladies and gentlemen, your inaugural Globe Sports Award winner, Novak Djokovic. Before you go anywhere, seeing that in black and white, what was running through your mind? First of all, it's a surprise. All of it is a surprise and I had no clue, no idea. I've never seen a similar video. In a very short amount of time, it has tried to explain or present my life and the trials and tribulations. This video is not by accident. This is a really mean position to put you on the spot. Do you have any concept what that was? Did it sound familiar? It was one of my matches with Nadal, judging by the sound. But with the words, obviously, it was representing, I guess, me on the left side and on the right side, all of the challenges. 54 shots. The US Open Final 2013. It was that very point. One of the longest ever at which you won. Okay, good. But I lost that match, though. But it's okay. We weren't going to talk about that. Look, I think what we all can relate to is trials and tribulations. Just seeing some of these words appear on the screen awakened kind of the emotions in me. Some positive, some negative. But I think in the end of the day, I think we can all agree that in the face of adversity, you grow the most. And we all aspire to be like our sporting heroes, hold trophies, be recognized, applauded, celebrated. But all the trials and tribulations that you have on a daily basis almost for many years is something that people don't see. And usually, those are the kind of moments that define your character, define who you are as a person and as an athlete. And I can stand here and maybe being a little bit less modest and humble to say that I'm extremely proud. But this is not only me. Even though I'm an individual athlete coming from an individual sport, I still have to give incredible thanks and praise to my wonderful wife and my children that are here. And my brother as well that are in attendance. And of course, all of the people that have contributed to my growth as a person and as a tennis player. To be recognized tonight in front of some of the greatest sporting and football and sporting legends ever is something that is truly special. I've been blessed. God has given me an incredible opportunity to play this sport still at this age. And the only thing I can kind of wrap it up and say is that I'm going to keep on going. You know, I love Cristiano's serious look when he said he's going to reach the thousand goals. And he really means it. And I do believe and resonate with his power of the words and power of the mind. Mind over matter, always. So, let's see what the future brings. But I'm extremely thankful to be here standing tonight. Thank you so much. Very, very well deserved. Novak Djokovic, ladies and gentlemen.