Even if Novak Djokovic is not as famous or loved as Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal, even his antics acknowledge his resilience. His constant drive to be better than his last tournament has made millions of people around the world admire him. One of them is Romanian tennis player Andreea Prisacariu. For her, Djoker has been a constant part of her career and even her off-court life.
Djokovic rose to prominence at a time when Federer and Nadal were reigning. But his sheer perseverance to be the best has led him to be a hero for people who look up to his 24 Grand Slam title legacy.
Romanian player confesses what made her adore Novak Djokovic
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
The Romanian tennis player Andreea Prisacariu looked up to Djokovic since she was a kid. No matter what challenge Nadal and Federer posed in front of the Serbian legend, she admired him for his resilience. In a recent interview with the Novak Weekly Podcast, she stated, “I also saw myself in that as a person, because I never could be just one thing.” So, when Djokovic came into the picture, she took a liking to his resilience.
She added, “So when I saw another human being that’s successful, and, free in the way he speaks, and the way he does things, I said, Okay, so this could be my role model.” Djokovic helped the Romanian player deal with her challenges even when he was not there.
She stated, “In my imagination, I was listening to him, the way he was speaking in interviews, or the way he was playing matches.” That led her to follow everything he did and said. This eventually helped her, “to be on the right path mentally and also in tennis.”
Djokovic has continued to motivate young tennis players to be their best irrespective of the challenges they face. Interestingly, one of them is Ben Shelton.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Ben Shelton admires Djokovic’s unique motivation
The American tennis sensation, Ben Shelton is entangled in the ongoing drama with his celebration. Djokovic imitated his cellphone celebration after defeating him in the semi-finals of the US Open.
However, even then, Shelton secretly admires Djokovic’s attitude towards people’s criticism. In an interview with GQ, he stated Djokovic craves negativity which helps him succeed on the court. He stated, “I’m not gonna lie, I check social media from time to time. He craves the negativity, hearing from the haters.” Shelton agreed with it and hoped to use that as his fuel as well.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Do you think Djokovic thrives on others’ hate? Let us know your views in the comments below.
WATCH THIS STORY | VIDEO: Pizza Lover Roger Federer Tries His Hand At Making The Legendary Italian Staple At New York