Novak Djokovic is back to his best. After a heartbreaking Wimbledon final defeat, the 36-year-old has ruled the tennis world yet again. Yesterday, he defeated Daniil Medvedev in the summit clash of the US Open to win his 24th Grand Slam title. In the process, he became the first man to do so. Despite the memorable win, Djokovic had a bitter-sweet feeling after the match.
The World Number 1 was born and brought up in Serbia. Djokovic has often come under the radar for his Serbian roots. Additionally, he hasn’t received the best of support from the fans at tournaments like the US Open. Recently, he opened up about his native country and the support of his fans.
Novak Djokovic on his Serbian roots
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After equaling Margaret Court’s all-time Grand Slam record of 24, Djokovic reflected on his background and fans accepting his Serbian roots. The 36-year-old revealed a saddening reality about his native country.
Talking about this, he said to Serbian media, reported by Tennis Majors, “I leave that to you guys and all the others, whether I deserve to be a part of that debate. One thing is a fact, though – if I wasn’t from Serbia, I’d have been glorified on a sporting level many years ago, especially in the west.”
Further, he went on to add, “But that’s part of my journey, I am grateful and proud to come from Serbia – because of that, all of these accomplishments are sweeter and even more fulfilling.”
In what was a tense US Open final, Djokovic got the better of Medvedev in straight sets 6-3, 7-6 (5), 6-3. The Serb had a little surprise to overcome nerves during the US Open.
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Djokovic has an emotional moment
During the post-match interview after lifting the US Open title, Djokovic revealed how his 6-year-old daughter gave him energy and relieved nerves during the match. She gave Djokovic a fist pump and as a result of this signal; he was able to relieve stress and perform better in the match. Describing the moment, he said, “She is only six years old, and in exactly the moments when I needed to have this playfulness and this joy and to relax a little bit in high stress.”
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Meanwhile, the Serb has jumped to the top spot in the ATP rankings chart. He overtook Carlos Alcaraz, who wasn’t able to defend his title. Djokovic will be looking to finish off his already glorious season on a high in the upcoming tournaments.
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