“It Obviously Means the World to Me,” Tennis Star Djokovic Shared the Greatest Inspiration Behind His Success

People
7 months ago

In life’s toughest moments and when we have exciting news to share, we realize that our family is always there to support us. They provide us with encouragement, respect, and love that never runs out. The bond between parents and children goes beyond just biology, and for the tennis star Novak Djokovic, his family is his rock-solid foundation of support.

His family was the biggest support he could ever ask for.

Novak Djokovic met his future wife, Jelena Ristić, when they were in high school and started dating in 2005. In September 2013 the couple got engaged and on July 10th, 2014, they tied the knot with a wedding. Earlier in 2014, Djokovic shared that they were expecting their first child, a son born in October of the same year. Their daughter Tara arrived a bit later in 2017.

His recent win at the US Open reminds us of the tough times his family went through to support his success. He’s 36 years old now and knows that his family played a big role in helping him become a champion. In a world where famous athletes often get a lot of attention, Djokovic’s words are a bright reminder that great achievements come from working hard for a long time and having strong family support.

The most important thing is not to give up when you think you have lost.

Djokovic had a significant wish: to compete for and win major trophies when his children, Stefan and Tara, were old enough to grasp the significance of such achievements. Both his son and daughter were present in the crowd. It was an epic battle and after three hours and 17 minutes of intense competition, his opponent struck his final forehand into the net, signaling Djokovic’s victory.

Dubreuil Corinne/ABACA/Abaca/East News

“She was facing me when I was sitting on the bench. And she smiled at me. Every single time I needed, I guess that kind of innocent child energy, I got it from her. When I was going through the very stressful moments, particularly in the second set when I needed a little bit of a push of strength, of just lightness, I guess, she gave me a smile, a fist pump. She was into it,” said Djokovic about his daughter.

“It’s so funny to see that and so interesting to see that she’s six years old, my son is nine, and they were both there. They’re both aware of what’s happening.”

He dedicated his latest victory to his loved ones.

Manu Fernandez/Associated Press/East News

As Djokovic clinched the second set and ultimately sealed the victory in three sets, his first act of celebration was not to the crowd but to go over to Tara and give her a heartfelt hug. He explained, “She looked at me, and she gave me this energy. That is why I went to her first — of course because she is my daughter, but she also helped me the most in this match. I love her so much, and to have her, my wife, my son Stefan, and my parents — I felt everyone’s support and love. This is their trophy as well.”

This 24th Grand Slam title, secured in his 36th final, was not just a personal triumph for Djokovic; it was a testament to his enduring dedication and passion for the sport. It also solidified his position as a legend in tennis history, moving him two Majors ahead of Rafael Nadal and equaling the record set by Margaret Court from a different era.

Djokovic spoke to the crowd, “It obviously means the world to me. I’m living my childhood dream to compete in this sport at the top. To make the history of this sport is truly remarkable and special. I never thought I would be talking about 24 Slams but the last couple of years I thought I had a shot.”

Connecting with people from all walks of life was primarily his goal, no matter if they knew about tennis or not. His story shows that even when life is tough, love for our family can guide us through it.

Preview photo credit Manu Fernandez/Associated Press/East News, Dubreuil Corinne/ABACA/Abaca/East News

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