Novak Djokovic is in the later stages of his career, but his drive to win more titles remains as strong as ever. And the 24-time Grand Slam champion is set to give fans a closer look at his life so far in an upcoming Amazon Prime documentary. In a recent interview before the release, Djokovic also spoke about Jannik Sinner, saying the Italian is the player who most closely matches his hunger for success.
Novak Djokovic Compares Jannik Sinner’s Relentless Hunger for Success to His Own
When the interviewer noted that the documentary concluded with his five-set victory over Sinner in Melbourne last January, Djokovic was asked if he sees his own reflection in the young athlete. The Serb agreed, opening up on their similar backgrounds.
“There are plenty of similarities, even though every human being is unique and special,” Djokovic explained to Italian media Corriere della Sera. He noted that they both grew up in the mountains, Sinner in Alto Adige and Djokovic in Serbia, and left home at just 13 to pursue their careers. “We chose skiing as a sport, we left home at 13, we were forced to become men quickly, away from family and loved ones.”
Djokovic credits their early skiing days for their unique athleticism, stating, “There’s no doubt that skiing gave us elasticity, movement, the ability to glide on any surface: ankle flexibility comes from the snow as much as balance and coordination between upper and lower limbs.” He concluded, “So, to answer you briefly: yes, I see myself in Sinner.”
Djokovic also deeply relates to Sinner’s mental drive. Rather than calling it an obsession, Djokovic sees it as a total commitment.
“I wouldn’t call it obsession, but rather constant and total dedication to tennis. I observe his and I completely identify with it: the desire to improve, grow, evolve in every aspect. Jannik, like me, is never satisfied. He has the mentality of a champion, always has.”
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Meanwhile, “Novak Djokovic: The Wolf in Winter,” which explores his life from childhood to his becoming a 101-time tour-level champion, is set to be released on August 20. In the trailer, Djokovic says, “I’m trying to prove myself wrong more than anybody else.”
The 39-year-old recently played in Cincinnati but lost to Thiago Tirante 6-2, 4-6, 4-6 in the first round. However, he is chasing a record 25th Grand Slam title at the US Open, which begins later this month.
