Novak Djokovic is one of the greatest athletes that the world has ever seen, let alone the sport of Tennis. The unwavering spirit and indomitable consistency with which he has grazed Tennis, has elevated him to the state of a legend. This has made him leave an indelible mark in the sporting world already, though he is not finished yet. Needless to say, it has inspired people from all generations.
The fact that he has won 24 Grand Slams, the joint most for a player in the open era, is an example of his greatness. It all began in 2008, when a youngster from a less fancied country of Serbia announced himself on the big stage, by winning the Australian Open. The statement was even more emphatic because he put it past Roger Federer in the semi-finals, who was already a great by then.
It is not all, as it is considered to be his favourite slam having won it 10 times in all. So, it is only apt that the proposition of a stadium being named after him in the country has surfaced. A clear indication for it was served when tournament director, Craig Tiley said, “You’re the second person who’s asked me that today. Look, I mean, ultimately the naming of the arena is not my decision or Tennis Australia’s.
Novak has quashed any speculations about his retirement, and his consent is what the authorities are waiting for. In all probability, he would be hoping to break the record for most number of slams, next year in Melbourne. If he succeeds, it would certainly vindicate the fact that he should be felicitated for his accomplishments in the country.
Novak Djokovic is calling the right shots and is getting due recognition
Djokovic joined in the race for slams a little late in the day. Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal, two stalwarts of the sport, had already projected themselves as legends for the future when they started to win. But, his burning desire to succeed and be the best in what he does, is what separated him from the other two of the “Big 3”.
In what is considered to be his USP, a strong fitness regimen has worked wonders for him. This has enabled him to compete on an even keel, even with the likes of youngsters like Carlos Alcaraz. As he has remarked jokingly, “…..What do you mean young ones. 35 is the new 25,” when he was asked about the rigors of dealing with the agility of youngsters when he is 35.
His greatness doesn’t only stem from his achievements on the court. He always had this attribute of standing up for what he thinks, come what may. The stance of not getting vaccinated even during COVID-19, bears ample testimony to this fact.
{Credits – Citi Sports Online, The Guardian}
Novak has also been a good visionary, thanks to his good friend and late NBA great, Kobe Bryant, who has inspired him with his Mamba mentality. Professional Tennis Players Association(PTPA), co-founded by him, an organization that stands to fight for the welfare of players is an apt example of it.
Thus, Djoker Nole, as he is fondly called is making all the right moves in asserting his supremacy as “the perfect athlete for tennis”, both on and off the court. Thus, to quote that, naming an arena after him in a country in which he has enjoyed the most success is fitting, could be an understatement.
