Keystone
After his 23rd Grand Slam title in Paris, Novak Djokovic talks about his place in tennis history. And assures that his journey is not over yet.
No time? blue News summarizes for you
- Novak Djokovic talks about his 23 Grand Slam titles in an interview after winning the French Open.
Novak Djokovic is the tennis player with the most Grand Slam victories – 23 in total. Rafa Nadal has 22 wins, Federer has won 20 Grand Slam tournaments. In an interview, Novak Djokovic talks about his 23rd title.
Novak Djokovic, where do you classify this success?
«One of the greatest, of course. I knew at the beginning of the tournament and especially before this final that history was at stake, but I’m trying to keep my focus on just this game as much as possible. My team created a good bubble around me and I managed to stay in the moment very well. When I saw his forehand fly out, it was a huge relief and wonderful emotions.”
How does it feel to be the greatest player in history?
“I don’t want to say that I’m the greatest, that would be disrespectful to the champions of other generations. I leave the discussions about the greatest player in history to others. But of course I have great confidence in my ability. This title is further proof of that. I already said at the beginning of the season that the Grand Slams are my top priority. My way is not over yet. I’m still motivated. Since I still win Grand Slams, why should I stop now when it’s been going so well for 20 years. I’m already looking forward to Wimbledon.”
They chased after Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal for so long. How does it feel to be alone at the top for the first time?
“Honestly, I’ve always measured myself against these two, they’re the two biggest rivals of my career. For 15 years they have occupied a good chunk of my mind, I’ve spent countless hours contemplating and analyzing what it takes to beat them on the biggest stage. Everyone has their own path, but I’m grateful to be part of this golden era.”
Where does your conviction and ambition come from?
“Well, I grew up a little differently than probably most other players of my generation. In the 1990s, when I was four or five years old, we had some wars. Serbia was under an embargo and I couldn’t travel to many junior tournaments. There were many resistances and challenges, like for all people in my country. My family didn’t have much money, yet they supported me in my dream of winning Wimbledon and becoming number 1. 95 percent of people laughed at her, but I also met some very important people who were crucial to my development as an athlete and as a person. And my father, my mother are a rock. I was very lucky. I will never forget that. I carry that in my heart and will be forever grateful.”
SDA/cf
2023-06-12 00:00:34
#Djokovic #greatest #disrespectful
