15-Love with Novak Djokovic: Pursuing Goals, Wisdom for the Young, and More
ATPTour.com engages with the legend in an exclusive Q&A session
November 05, 2025
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Novak Djokovic has astonishingly held the No. 1 spot in the PIF ATP Rankings for a record 428 weeks.
By Andrew Eichenholz
As one of the most distinguished athletes not only in tennis but across all sports, Novak Djokovic continues to leave an indelible mark on the history of the game. With a groundbreaking 428 weeks at the No. 1 position in the PIF ATP Rankings, he has consistently pushed boundaries and learned invaluable lessons through his journey.
In anticipation of the Vanda Pharmaceuticals Hellenic Championship, ATPTour.com had the unique opportunity to delve into Djokovic’s mindset, uncover his all-time favorite match, understand the emotions tied to being at the sport’s pinnacle, and much more.
What quote resonates deeply with you?
A principle that guides me is, ‘There is no elevator to success, you have to take the stairs’.
What’s the most meaningful gift you’ve ever received?
A hand-painted portrait of me with my family holds a special place in my heart.
What advice would you offer young dreamers?
Believing in your dreams is paramount. Don’t let anyone extinguish your hopes. Children possess incredible imagination and creativity, and it’s crucial to foster that vision — whether in sports or any domain — allowing them to embrace their full potential.
Let them soar and express themselves without limits; their imagination is truly remarkable.
What has being a father taught you?
The most significant lesson is to be fully present. When spending time with your children, it’s important not to get distracted. They deserve your undivided attention, whether you’re playing together or engaged in another activity. Kids naturally teach us about forgiveness, moving forward, and being in the moment.
What’s your go-to meal?
I often crave something sweet, so an acai bowl is definitely a favorite of mine.
What’s the best match you’ve ever played?
The pinnacle for me was the 2012 Australian Open final against Nadal, which became the longest Grand Slam final in history. Another highlight was the 2019 Wimbledon final against Roger — both were extraordinary matches. Yet, if I had to choose one, the 2019 Australian Open final, where I defeated Nadal in straight sets, stands out for its exceptional level of tennis.
Having spent the most weeks at No. 1, how does it feel at the top?
It’s an exhilarating feeling, but it also brings a sense of solitude. Being in that position means you’re constantly under scrutiny. It’s a dream come true, but the journey shifts from pursuing the top to defending it. While it’s rewarding, it’s essential to maintain a creation-oriented mindset rather than viewing yourself solely as a target. This ensures continued growth instead of succumbing to unnecessary pressure.
What has been the cornerstone of your success?
Dedication is key. My passion for the sport drives my commitment and devotion to excellence.
Who do you consider the most underrated player you’ve faced?
Stan Wawrinka deserves more recognition. As a three-time Grand Slam champion, people often overlook his remarkable achievements, considering he ranks among the top players in the game’s history.
If you could coach your younger self, what advice would you give?
I would emphasize patience and enjoying the journey. Balance professionalism with personal life. While dedication is crucial, it’s equally important to live fully during your youth — time is not reversible.
If you could adopt any stroke from another player, which would it be?
I’d love to have a serve like the ‘serve bots’ — anyone towering 6’10” or taller!
If you could play any historic match that wasn’t yours, which would it be?
I’d choose one of the legendary Borg-McEnroe matches. Experiencing that live would be incredible, or even playing with a wooden racquet to appreciate the evolution of technology in tennis over the last five decades. It’s fascinating how the game has transformed.
You had intense rivalries with Federer and Nadal. How do they compare to your emerging rivalries with Alcaraz and Sinner?
These rivalries are distinct. Much of my career has been spent alongside Nadal and Federer. Alcaraz and Sinner represent a fresh wave of talent — they’re young guns, and while our rivalries are still developing, it’s exciting to witness their exceptional matches in the past 18 months. Our sport benefits tremendously from having fierce competition.
How would you summarize Novak the tennis player in one word?
I’d borrow Nick Kyrgios’s description: meticulous.
If you could change any result from your career, what would it be?
I wouldn’t change anything; every experience serves a purpose.
