NEW YORK – Being Aryna Sabalenka’s partner has put Georgios Frangulis (36) straight into the spotlight of the world of tennis – from the nerve-wracking emotions of sitting courtside in her box to inspiring conversations with Novak Djokovic.
“Definitely, Aryna is what I like the most about it! What I dislike is being in the box. It’s one of most stressful situations I’ve ever experienced,” he admits with disarming honesty.
Behind that emotional ride is also a sharp businessman: the founder of Oakberry, a global açaí brand, and now an investor in Le Mans Football Club alongside Novak Djokovic and two former Formula 1 drivers: Felipe Massa and Kevin Magnussen.
In his last press conference in New York, Djokovic spoke about Frangulis: “I also became part of his company Oakberry. I have a really nice and friendly relationship with him and with Aryna, and a good business cooperation as well. The two of them are a great couple, and as individuals I find them very likable and fun – I really enjoy spending time with them”
Having already sponsored tournaments through Oakberry, Frangulis -Brazilian of Greek descent- has long been connected to tennis, but life in Sabalenka’s box has taken things to another level.
In this CLAY interview, published also in RG Media, he reflects on love, pressure, business, and the lessons he learns from both Sabalenka and Djokovic: “Novak is the GOAT standard in terms of mindset and sharpness.”
Interview with Georgios Frangulis
– How are you adapting to the tennis world – what do you like the most about it, and what do you dislike?
– Definitely Aryna – she’s what I enjoy the most about it! The toughest part is being in the box. It’s one of the most stressful situations I’ve ever experienced. I’ve always loved tennis and been around it for a long time. Through my company Oakberry we’ve sponsored tournaments, but when you have such a personal connection with someone and with the sport, it becomes something completely different. Sitting in the box during tough matches is by far the hardest part.
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– Describe your emotions. How do you decide when to speak and when to stay quiet?
– I never say anything during matches. I try not to show too much emotion, because Aryna notices everything – what everyone is doing in the box. I just clap as loudly as I can and make sure she feels supported. For me, the most important part comes afterwards – making sure she’s feeling good overall once the match is over.
– What’s the first thing you tell her after a tough loss?
– I just say that I love her and, “on to the next one.” She’s used to losses, though thankfully she’s more used to winning. It’s all about showing support and reminding her that tomorrow is another day. Tennis is probably the toughest sport in the world – you’re out there alone, and in the end you lose more often than you win. The key is letting her know I’ll always be there for her.
– And what’s been your greatest celebration after a big title?
– Last year’s US Open. We had a lot of friends in town. I can’t give too many details (laughs), but it was an amazing celebration and a really special night. It was also my birthday, so everything lined up perfectly.
– Do you ever help with Aryna’s social media – are you the cameraman sometimes?
– No, she has her own videographer. I don’t mind stepping in, but I’m just not as good. I help when I can, but for the quality of her content it’s much better to have a professional.
– You’re now involved with Le Mans Football Club together with Novak Djokovic. How do you two get along?
– Novak has been an idol of mine forever, long before we became friends. I always admired him for his achievements. When the Le Mans opportunity came up, I decided to invest in the club and brought in some investors who made a lot of sense. Since we’re talking about sports investment, I’d say Novak is the GOAT standard in terms of mindset and sharpness as an athlete. He fell in love with the project immediately – it just made sense. Felipe Massa and Kevin Magnussen also joined us, which fits perfectly with the motorsport heritage of Le Mans and its famous race. I love being around Novak and learning from him. And I think it’s good for him, too. He’s been on a tennis court his whole life, so exploring new areas is exciting for him. He’s a great listener, very curious about business, politics, everything. That’s why any conversation with him is always engaging and fun.
– Was there a conversation with Djokovic that particularly stuck with you?
– We talk about everything – from food to football, tennis… we can go on for hours. We’ve spoken a lot about Oakberry; he loves it, because he’s very focused on wellness and taking care of his body. As an athlete, your body is your biggest asset. I feel lucky to have the chance to learn from him – and from Aryna as well.
– How do you compare Djokovic and Sabalenka mentally? Do you see any similarities?
– She also enjoys talking to him and learning from him, from the perspective of someone who has achieved so much. They do talk, and in that relationship she’s more of a listener – and why wouldn’t she be, right? Any tennis player should be happy when talking to Novak.
If you enjoyed this interview with Georgios Frangulis, don’t miss many other interviews with the stars of the tour — available at this link to our website.
