Novak Djokovic displayed a champion's heart winning his first Roland Garros title to complete the career Grand Slam.
Djokovic shared his joy with fans and paid tribute to his friend, three-time French Open champion Gustavo Kuerten, by tracing a heart on the terre battue and laying out on the clay duplicating the heart-felt gesture Kuerten gave to French fans years ago.
Watch: Djokovic Wins Roland Garros Completes Career Grand Slam
"He's able to get better every year, that's scary," Kuerten said of Djokovic's triumph, jokingly adding. "But (my heart drawing) was a little bit better."
The world No. 1 asked Kuerten's permission to repeat his heart-carving on clay before the tournament began during this car-ride they shared for a Roland Garros video.
"I mentioned that to him even before, that him drawing the heart on the court is for me personally most memorable moment that I have ever seen from Roland Garros," Djokovic said. "It was something completely different. I asked him if I have that permission and honor in case I win to do that. So he gave me that permission. I still haven't seen him now, and hopefully I will see him soon so we can share the impressions of that."
During their ride, Kuerten shares a very funny memory of his first practice with the teenage Djokovic at Roland Garros.
"I was like 'Ah this young guy from Serbia, he's quite okay,' " Kuerten tells Djokovic during their Roland Garros road trip.
The three-time Roland Garros champion reveals the young Djokovic was such a diligent practice partner it drove Guga to use a stall tactic: The Water Trick.
"It was too hard for me. I started to use the water trick, a little water, a towel please," Kuerten says.
"I remember that, you told me to slow down," a smiling Djokovic says.
Nole and Guga have been friends for years. Djokovic brought a smile to Kuerten's face and an appreciative roar from Brazilian fans when he donned a floppy, curly wig for this spot-on impression of Guga, complete with bobbing head and customary back stretching before serving, during an exhibition match a few years back.
Djokovic spent time gearing up for Roland Garros hanging out with Kuerten as the pair taped a Peugot campaign.
If you forgot what a brilliant champion Kuerten was, or if you're too young too have seen his gangly grace light up Paris, then here's a reminder of the Hall of Famer's wondrously creative style.
Photo credit: Zimbio