Novak Djokovic explained how difficult it was to leave his family while competing at the Australian Open and other tournaments.
Novak Djokovic explained how difficult it was to be away from his family while competing (Image: Getty)
Novak Djokovic opened up on one of the toughest parts of his career as he admitted it was becoming increasingly difficult to leave his family behind. The 24-time Grand Slam champion has two children with his wife Jelena. After speaking to Djokovic about his life as a tennis player, Australian TV presenter Karl Stefanovic made a strong statement over the world No. 1’s future and eventual retirement.
Djokovic faced a disappointing end to the Australian Open this year, suffering his first defeat ever in the semi-final stage at the hands of Jannik Sinner. The world No. 1 hadn’t lost in Melbourne since 2018, bringing an end to his 33-match winning streak.
But there seems to be no indication that the world No. 1 is slowing down, despite the fact that he will be 37 by the time the next Grand Slam tournament rolls around at the French Open. After speaking to Djokovic about the difficulties of being away from his family, Stefanovic rubbished speculation that he was close to retirement.
“He’ll be back,” the Nine Network presenter said. “There’s all sorts of debate over what the future holds for him. But he has no time for even thinking about retiring yet. He’s still having a great time but he’s still an incredible dude.”
Karl Stefanovic said Novak Djokovic wasn’t considering retirement (Image: Channel Nine Today Show)
Karl Stefanovic said Novak Djokovic wasn’t considering retirement (Image: Channel Nine Today Show)
Novak Djokovic said he struggled more as time went on when it came to leaving his family (Image: Getty)
“This is a very demanding sport with high travel intensity throughout the year. You have to play worldwide, which is beautiful, which allows us to travel the world, play in front of many different people and nations. At the same time it separates you from the family and from the dear ones.
“That was probably the biggest challenge I had internally for me, is how to balance things out and still be able to participate in my children’s lives and my wife’s life and be able to be there when it matters. When I’m not, how can I stay connected. Obviously technology allows you to communicate, but it’s different when you were away.”
