Novak Djokovic proposes unique wager to Rory McIlroy during Wimbledon speech

Rory McIlroy was present for Novak Djokovic’s second round victory over long-time rival Stefanos Tsitsipas; however, the Serb proposed an interesting wager for the Northern Irish golfer during his Wimbledon speech after the match.

The 39-year-old made easy work of the Greek star as he sailed to a three-set victory on Centre Court, and he will now face Arthur Rinderkneck in the next round as he aims to win his eighth Wimbledon title.

McIlroy was sitting in the Royal Box to witness Djokovic’s victory, and while he had expected to watch some enthralling tennis, he may not have been prepared for what would happen next.

Djokovic was completing the post-match duties with his speech, thanking the crowd for their support before he stopped in his tracks to address the Northern Irish golfer.

The Serb said: “I feel great. I’ve said this so many times before, but I try not to take this moment for granted, playing on Centre Court of the childhood dream tournament.

“I’ve always been saying that; it stayed like that. I feel very privileged to be walking out on the court at age 30 plus.

"I don’t think it’s a cliché, and I believe it’s actually true. Age is just a number, and a few people that know something about that are right in the Royal Box.

Golfer Rory McIlroy is seen in the Royal Box with partner Erica Stoll as Novak Djokovic of Serbia speaks to him during a post-victory speech (Getty Images)

“Rory, Justin [Thomas], obviously Luke [McDonald], it’s nice to see you, guys. Congrats, Team Europe, on the Ryder Cup; I watched you guys.”

As a European, Djokovic will have been pleased at Team Europe’s victory over the USA at Farmingdale, as Luke McDonald captained and helped his team to retain the trophy.

McIlroy was at the centre of the success last September as he and Shane Lowry were pivotal in the teams’ event, helping Europe secure a 15-13 win.

It was not the only major success that McIlroy has had of recent, as he completed golf’s Grand Slam of Majors titles by securing the Masters in 2025 and 2026.

The green jacket that a golfer wins from success at the Masters is a unique award, and it was this that Djokovic eyed in his speech, offering an interesting wager.

The 39-year-old said: “Rory, what a beautiful jacket. Is that a Masters jacket? It must be. Round of applause for Rory for the Masters, please.

“I want that jacket. I’ll play you. This jacket for that jacket, we’ll play tennis! No golf. I want to thank them obviously for being present. I know they arrived early and stayed all day, so thank you, guys. It really means a lot seeing you here.”