2023-12-28 17:10:29
Who said Novak Djokovic was so different? The Serbian, 36 years old and 24 Grand Slams under his belt, ultimately shares the same idols as anyone. Elected World Champion of Champions 2023 The Teamthe “Djoker” returned, in an interview for the sports daily, to his relationship with sport during his childhood.
“My three childhood idols were Pete Sampras, Michael Jordan and Alberto Tomba. Beyond these names, I appreciate Muhammad Ali, who had an impact with his incredible results, but also a social impact by inspiring many people with his courage and integrity. I respect that a lot,” the Serbian begins.
“He talked to me about everything except skiing”
Among his idols, the one who will begin his season at the United Cup in Australia in January also cites the skier Alberto Tomba. “La Bomba!” A fantastic guy. I met him for the first time in Serbia, Djokovic remembers. It was a dinner where there were a lot of people. I was sitting next to him, and he was so funny! He talked to me about everything except skiing. Me, I wanted to learn a couple of technical things. But he told me: “No, no skiing, let’s talk about parties, let’s talk about life!” »
The triple Italian Olympic gold medalist, specialist in slalom and giant, has also promised to ski one day with the Serb. “I hope that day comes because I’m going to get back on the slopes eventually. I played tennis with Pete Sampras, I need to ski with Tomba and play basketball with Jordan. Afterwards, I will be able to retire from all sports! », quips the last winner of the US Open.
On the French side, Djokovic admits to special ties with Teddy Riner, with whom he has been in contact since the Rio Games in 2016 and who presented him with the Trophy at the Rolex Paris Masters last November: “He has always been supportive. I have always been impressed by his career. Her size. His weight ? No, we’re not talking about nutrition. He’s doing pretty well! It has to be built like that. I couldn’t perform well in his sport. »
No Olympic village in Paris for Djokovic?
Djoko and Teddy Riner should meet again next summer at the Paris Games. But not necessarily in the Olympic Village. The Serb explains that he has not yet made the decision whether or not to sleep with the other athletes. “The Games are special. We don’t have all our routines, we can’t take all the team we want, regrets Djokovic. In Tokyo, the experience was great. And all this attention to the village, it’s true, it was a privilege. I had some very fun times. But, at the same time, it took a lot of energy out of me. »
The Serbian returned from Japan with a sad 4th place. A bad memory for the one who has repeatedly said he wants to go to Paris to get Olympic gold, the only thing he is missing in his immense and inimitable record.
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