Novak Djokovic: Another greatness of tennis legends – selflessness and legacy off the court

In the world of tennis, Djokovic's name is often associated with 24 Grand Slam titles, a record of 428 weeks in the world for the number of weeks, and a golden crown. Off the field, however, there is another side to the Serbian legend that is just as admirable – a generous mentor, a selfless senior, and a solid backing for young players in their development.

Recently, Sinner's coach Darren Cahill revealed in a blog show that Djokovic even took the initiative to send him a message to analyze Sinner's technical shortcomings in detail, including serve stability, forehand changes, and net timing. Cahill lamented: "Novak didn't have to do it, but he was willing to share his opinion. When I say to Sinner, 'That's what Deyo thinks,' the young people are deeply moved. ”

This selfless guidance is not accidental. Djokovic has always believed that progress in tennis needs to be passed down from generation to generation. He once said: "If I observe the potential of a young player, I will tell him directly how to improve. The sport needs more top players, not just me winning. ”

Djokovic's help to young players goes far beyond technical advice. Serbian rising star and 2023 New Force Finals champion Hamad Mejdovic is the prime beneficiary.

In 2021, Djokovic covered the team expenses for the entire season of Mejdovic, including coach salary, training grounds, travel and accommodation, etc., allowing him to focus on his professional development. When Mejdovic won his first Challenger title in July 2022, Djokovic sent a congratulatory text message even though he was preparing for Wimbledon: "Keep going, this is just the beginning!" ” Djokovic also used his influence to secure high-level training opportunities for Mejdovic, even inviting him to his training camp. Mejdovich admitted: "Novak is like my big brother. Without him, I couldn't have made a breakthrough so quickly. ”

As the banner of Serbian tennis, Djokovic has always been concerned about the cultivation of the reserve force of the motherland.Despite his busy schedule, he continued to represent his country in the Davis Cup, Union Cup and Olympics, often rewarding his teammates out of his own pocket to boost team morale. He sponsored a tennis academy in Belgrade, providing free training resources for young people in his country.

Djokovic's pattern is not only reflected in the care of his compatriots, but even his competitors are full of respect for him: In the final of the 2023 Australian Open, when Tsitsipas was depressed after his loss, Djokovic took the initiative to hug and encourage him: "You will have your own era. ” He has long been a voice for lower-ranked players on the tour, demanding that the Grand Slams raise first-round bonuses to ensure that more people can stay on to their professional paths.

Novak Djokovic once said: "The real winner is not how many trophies you take, it's how you influence the sport." "His acts of kindness may not count towards the Grand Slams, but they have sown the seeds of hope in the hearts of countless young players. From technical guidance to financial assistance, from psychological motivation to national feelings, he explains what it means to be a "tennis leader".

Data is important in the GOAT debate, but Djokovic's ability to transcend wins and loses is perhaps the most precious legacy he has left to the tennis world.(Source: Tennis Home Author: Mei)