Djokovic goes snap happy in athlete's village

By Steve Keating

BEIJING (Reuters) - Novak Djokovic has been playing the part of the paparazzi in the Olympic Village, grabbing snaps of other athletes.

While Roger Federer was forced out of the athletes village last week after being constantly hounded by fellow Olympians wanting their picture taken with the world number one, the Serbian tennis player has settled comfortably into village life.

"It's true, I see people like Kipketer, LeBron James, Kobe Bryant, Yao Ming, all the top athletes in the world," he said, following his 6-4 6-4 first round win over American Robby Ginepri on Monday.

"So, yes, I do ask them for pictures because for me this is the memory which is going to stay in my life forever."

The world number three, Djokovic is no stranger to being in the front of the lens and has watched his popularity soar along with his ranking.

The 21-year-old has already claimed three titles this season, including his first Grand Slam in Australia, and is now targeting an Olympic gold.

"Of course, I do get approached from the other athletes to get asked for the picture," said Djokovic. "You know, tennis is played 10 months out of 12 in the year at least. So they see a lot of us on the TV, obviously."

"I'm being surrounded with the best athletes around the world. It's a privilege," he said.