In a candid revelation, Novak Djokovic, the iconic tennis player, shared that the “only motivation” propelling him in his remarkable career is the aspiration to defend his title at the 2028 Olympic Games. This admission comes just three years before the event is set to take place in Los Angeles, where Djokovic will be 41 years old. In an interview with Slaven Bilic, a football manager, for the publication Neuspjeh prvaka, Djokovic articulated that his current professional vision is singularly focused on the upcoming Olympics, indicating a profound significance in representing his nation on such a prestigious platform.
Djokovic elaborated on the ethos behind his competitive drive, stating, “The only thing that I have in my head, which gives me motivation, is the Olympics of 2028 in Los Angeles.” This declaration underscores his prioritization of international competition over other accolades. Moreover, he expressed that while playing for the national team and aiming for Grand Slam titles still holds value for him, the Olympic Games have a more compelling allure. In combining both a sense of nationalism and individual achievement, Djokovic’s focus is channeling towards this apex of athletic competition.
As a testament to his storied career, Djokovic has accomplished remarkable feats, including securing 24 Grand Slam titles, a record he shares with tennis legend Margaret Court. However, the current year has posed its challenges for him as he faced world No. 1, Jannik Sinner, in the semi-finals of both the Australian Open and the French Open. The setbacks indicate a competitive landscape in which even the most accomplished players must continually adjust and refine their game. Notably, since 2023, Djokovic has yet to clinch a Grand Slam title, although he remains optimistic with Wimbledon on the horizon, commencing on June 30.
Reflecting on his enduring passion for the sport, Djokovic expressed, “I love tennis and I still love to wield the racket.” This statement emphasizes the unyielding connection he feels to the sport that first captured his heart as a child. Despite the inevitable wear and tear of a lengthy career, his love for the game has not waned. He asserted that if his passion and competitive spirit were to dissolve, he would not remain on the courts. This assertion speaks volumes about why he continues to pursue excellence in a sport that is as demanding mentally as it is physically.
Moreover, Djokovic shed light on his strategic approach to scheduling, influenced by observing fellow tennis great Roger Federer. Throughout the early years of an athlete’s career, Djokovic noted, “For most of your career, when you’re young, every tournament counts.” However, he recognized that not every player maximizes their potential or effectively manages their training schedules to peak at Grand Slam events. Djokovic’s revelation about how Federer indirectly impacted his understanding of tournament planning illustrates an essential aspect of an athlete’s ability to sustain peak performance. He acknowledged that taking timely breaks is critical and that he has made mistakes in the past regarding his scheduling.
Furthermore, Djokovic critically assessed the mentality of some players who may not inherently believe in their capacity to excel at major tournaments, suggesting that this lack of belief can inhibit their success. By sharing these insights, Djokovic not only highlights his personal growth but also provides a broader perspective on the mental fortitude required to compete at the highest levels of tennis. His journey encapsulates lessons about balance, foresight, and the importance of psychological resilience in elite sports.
As he gears up for the future, especially the Olympics, Djokovic stands as a testament to the belief that passion, experience, and a strategic outlook are vital components for sustaining a successful career, even as he approaches the twilight years of professional athletics. Watch and stream the dynamic world of tennis through platforms such as TNT Sports and discovery+, where Djokovic’s legacy continues to unfold.