Recently crowned Wimbledon champion Novak Djokovic has said that he is not ashamed of feeling vulnerable during in a extensive letter published on his personal website.
In the letter, the former world No.1 talked about his journey to his 13th grand slam title and the barriers he encountered. Djokovic missed six months of the tour last year due to a right elbow injury. He also underwent a surgical procedure on his elbow earlier this year. On top of that, the Serbian also had to contend with both motivational struggles as well as changes to his coaching team within the past 18 months.
“I was vulnerable so many times in the last few years. And I am still vulnerable. I am not ashamed of it. In contrary, it makes me more true to myself and others.” Djokovic wrote.
“It allows me to get closer to people. It allows me to “dig deep” and analyze what is truly happening inside of me.
“When I find that out, I am able to create a strategy to overcome this occurring issue and move on as a stronger, wiser, happier human being.”
Reflecting back on his roller coaster journey, the world No.10 admits there was times where he wasn’t patient enough with himself on the tour. At the start of the year he managed to win back-to-back matches in just two out of six tournaments before regaining his form on a more consistent basis.
“For the last 2 years, I wasn’t patient with my tennis expectations. I wasn’t wise in strategizing.” He admits.
“I certainly wasn’t clearly hearing my body telling me that there is something serious happening with my elbow. I was trying to find solutions somewhere else and solution was always inside of me.”
The Wimbledon triumph
After experiencing turmoil in the past, Djokovic returned back to winning ways at one of the biggest tennis events in the world. At the Wimbledon Championships he defeated Rafael Nadal and Kevin Anderson on route to the title. Making it his first grand slam title since 2016.
The occasion was special for the Serbian for many reasons. One of them being that he was also to clinch the title in front of his three-year-old son Stefan.
“When I became a father, one of my biggest dreams was to have my children present at the stands while I am playing. Let alone winning trophies. That dream came true several days ago.” Djokovic reflected.
“I have imagined and prayed that one day I would win a Grand Slam trophy in front of my child. Luckily for me, Tara is growing up and I can’t wait for her to see me do the same as I did in front of Stefan.” He later added.
Djokovic also paid tribute to his wife Jelena for her support given to him as he balanced fatherhood with life as a professional tennis player.
“My wife was so helpful and supportive all the way since she gave birth to both Stefan and Tara. She always took time to discuss whatever bothered me and to help me find a way where I can feel like I am giving my best at home with kids and her and at the tennis court.“ He said.
The 31-year-old is set to return to the tour next month at the Rogers Cup in Toronto.
