“Patriotism is Very Strong”: Father Reveals Novak Djokovic Went Against His Opinion to Play Tokyo Olympics 2020

World No.1 Novak Djokovic recently lost back-to-back matches at the Tokyo Olympics 2020. Chasing his Calendar Golden Slam this year, the Serbian not only failed to win the Olympic Gold but returned home without a medal.

In the post-match interview, Novak Djokovic admitted that he was physically and mentally exhausted after a tight schedule. As a result, many experts are questioning his decision to play at the Tokyo Olympics 2020.

In a recent interview, Djokovic’s father, Srdjan Djokovic, revealed that he advised his son not to go to Tokyo. He even shared the message he wrote to Nole before traveling for the Olympic Games.

“If my opinion means something to you, I don’t think you should go to Tokyo. It’s a long way, there are no spectators, you would have to quarantine again. It’s just not the Olympics without spectators. Dad loves you,” mentioned Srdjan in the message. (Translated via Google Translate)

Djoker‘s father clearly advised him not to go to Tokyo as there are no spectators. However, the World No.1 didn’t heed his father’s advice and went there to bag a medal for his nation.

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Father also shares what Novak Djokovic replied to his message

In response, Djokovic responded that he knew about his body and that it would recover quickly. He even highlighted that he was going to Tokyo as he loves his nation and wanted to win a medal for it.

“Of course your opinion matters to me, Dad. I wanted to take three or four days to feel how my body was. I always recover quickly, so it’s not a big deal. Patriotism is very strong in my heart and in my head, Dad. You know me, when it comes to Serbia, I cry there and I don’t turn around,” replied the 20-time Grand Slam champion.

After playing matches continuously at the French Open and the Wimbledon Championships 2021, Djokovic’s body needed some rest. In addition, the weather conditions were not favorable which made it tougher for him in Tokyo.

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It is highly likely that Novak Djokovic will skip some tournaments before playing at the upcoming hard court season. Fans have huge expectations from him and want him to bounce back.

Will he be able to win the US Open 2021 title this year?