Alexander Zverev jokes that Novak Djokovic is refusing to retire because they agreed for the Serb to become his coach once he is done with pro tennis.
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On Thursday, the German tennis star and the record 24-time Grand Slam champion clashed at Rod Laver Arena in an exhibition match.
After the 37-year-old claimed a tight 7-6 (6) win, the two had some fun during their on-court interviews.
"Me and Novak we have a deal that once he retires he's going to coach me for a year. He's postponing that so I retire so he doesn't need to do that," the 27-year-old joked.
Zverev's funny reaction to Djokovic hiring Andy Murray
In November, the former world No. 1 stunned the entire tennis world when he announced Murray would be joining him for the Australian Open.
When asked how he reacted to the news, the two-time Grand Slam finalist delivered another funny moment.
"What did I think? S---," the world No. 2 replied.
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"In a negative way for me, but in a positive way for him I guess. Look, he is a 24-time grand slam champion. I feel like it almost doesn't matter anymore who he takes as a coach."
For years, Zverev has been one of the best in the game but he remains without a Grand Slam victory.
When addressing the Djokovic and Murray partnership, the 27-year-old joked that his wait will probably prolong while the Serb will go on to five more Grand Slams.
"His probably going to win five more while I still try to chase my first. The story continues. I get older, Novak is younger. We will still be here in 10 years time," the German added.
Meanwhile, the Australian Open draw was released on Thursday and Zverev and Djokovic landed in the same part of the draw and could possibly meet in the semifinal.
