Novak Djokovic on Manifesting Success & Winning Olympic Gold

The acclaimed tennis player Novak Djokovic has a history that intertwines his family's support, a national crisis, and a passion for tennis discovered in early childhood. His journey to becoming a professional tennis player was profoundly influenced by these elements.

Novak discovered his passion for tennis at a young age through his family's restaurant business and the construction of nearby tennis courts

Novak Djokovic's introduction to tennis began at the age of four when tennis courts were constructed in front of his family’s restaurant in Serbia. The Djokovic family owned a business at Kopanik, a mountain resort which became a seasonal attraction due to the wars. When tennis camps visited the area, a curious Djokovic would watch from the sidelines and soon joined a camp. This was where he met his early coach and mentor, Jelena Gencic.

It was Gencic who spotted the young Novak’s talent for the sport, recognized his potential, and declared that he could become the world's number one player. Djokovic arrived at his first practice session fully equipped, showing an unusual level of commitment for a child. Both his 'tennis mother' Gencic and his parents instilled a deep sense of discipline in him, and Djokovic credits them with being foundational to his development as a person and an athlete. His family made significant sacrifices, with his father going to great lengths to support Djokovic's budding career.

Novak's upbringing was shaped by the turbulent political and economic conditions in Serbia during the wars of the 1990s

The wars during the nineties presented major obstacles for Djokovic and his family. The construction of the tennis courts coincided with the outbreak of war and Yugoslavia’s disintegration, affecting the local economy and making it just a seasonal skiing destination. Despite facing such ...

The experiences of conflict and personal struggle have played a significant role in shaping Novak Djokovic's mindset towards life, his career, and his approach to helping others.

Experiencing the bombings and instability of the wars in Serbia as a child instilled in Novak a deep appreciation for life, resilience, and the importance of compassion and community

Novak Djokovic recounts the fear and uncertainty during the bombings in Serbia, where he experienced a sense of insecurity and helpless due to the war's unpredictability. Djokovic's childhood was marked by nightly runs to underground shelters and the terrifying flashes of light from explosions. These experiences have ingrained in him a deep appreciation for life and resilience. Djokovic reflects on those who lost everything due to war, indicating his understanding of hardship's profound impacts.

One particularly poignant memory for Djokovic is witnessing the heartbreak of a young child and her mother affected by war. This event highlighted the devastating impact of conflict on individuals and underscored Djokovic's empathy. He subsequently learned the importance of being kind to everyone, as you never know someone else's struggles.

Despite the devastation, Djokovic found positivity in unity and community. A sense of rebellion in his younger years led to an almost fun approach to the adversities faced. He recalls sharing food and clothing with his neighborhood during these times and the love that emanated from such acts of kindness.

Djokovic shares that the warfare has shaped him into someone who values life and is tougher and more resilient. The visible scars of war serve as reminders in Belgrade, and while he believes in letting go of past traumas, he understands the long-term emotional impacts of such events.

Overcoming self-doubt and uncertainty in his tennis career, such as during a period in 2010 when he struggled to win Grand Slams, has strengthened Novak's mental fortitude and commitment to his goals

Novak Djokovic faced a period of doubt in 2010, where despite being ranked third in the world, he questioned his tennis career's worth following a loss at the French Open. Discussions with his support team led him to reflect on his passion for tennis and reaffirm his love for the game. This introspection was pivotal and preceded winning the Davis Cup, a 43-match winning stre ...

Novak Djokovic’s approach to tennis combines a deep-seated belief in his abilities, a disciplined mindset, and a holistic understanding of performance that goes beyond the physical aspects of the sport.

Novak has always been clear about his goals and driven to reach the top of the sport, with a strong belief in his ability to become world number one

Recognized early on by his coach Jelena Gencic, Djokovic has harbored a belief in his talent and potential to become world number one since he was seven years old. His childhood dream was not only to reach that pinnacle but also to triumph at Wimbledon. These ambitions were so ingrained that recalling them could revive his motivation during times of struggle. After conquering a period of self-doubt, this relentless drive culminated in a winning streak that catapulted him to the peak of the world rankings.

Novak's disciplined and focused approach, combined with his love for the game, has been instrumental in his ability to perform at the highest level consistently over many years

Djokovic places significant value on having concrete short-term and long-term goals, constantly reassessing them with his support network. His understanding of discipline—as the bridge to turning goals into reality—guides his life beyond the tennis courts. However, it was Djokovic's inherent love for tennis, irrespective of competition and acclaim, that reignited his passion and spurred a notable 43-match winning streak. This combination of joy for the sport, along with his structured and concentrated methodology, has been fundamental to his sustained success.

Novak places a strong emphasis on mental training and the importance of being present and connected to his inner self, using techniques like controlled breathing to remain focused and in control during competition

Novak Djokovic considers the mental aspect of tennis equally vital for achieving superior performance, as Howes alludes to Djokovic's winning mindset. Djokovic understands the power of breathing techniques, not just for maintaining composure during matches but also for living mindfully. By cultivating a deep presence, Djokovic believes one can manage emotion ...

The dedication of the tennis champion Novak Djokovic, along with his wife Elena, to philanthropic efforts, particularly in early childhood education and development in Serbia, is profound and compelling.

Novak and his wife, Elena, have established various philanthropic initiatives and charitable projects, particularly focused on early childhood education and development in Serbia

Novak mentions his foundation's collaboration with UNICEF and while discussing his foundation's work, he speaks about focusing on early education. This focus aims to provide resources, support, and opportunities for young people in Serbia to reach their full potential and positively shape their futures. Novak reflects on the different environment education creates, compared to the immediate hardships experienced by refugees.

Through their work, Novak and Elena aim to instill values that offer more than immediate relief but rather a foundation for lasting development and the empowerment of young generations.

Novak views his role as a public figure and professional athlete as a platform to inspire others and spread messages of love, unity, and personal growth

Howes speaks about Djokovic's intentions beyond tennis, highlighting his desire to leave a significant, positive imprint in the world. Djokovic's wife, Elena, introduced Howes to Novak with the impression that Djokovic is dedicated to spreading love, joy, and uniting humanity.

Djokovic himself expresses that winning is not the only goal for him. He insists on having a strong, altruistic reason for his actions, a driving force that influences his purpose in life. He shares the views taught by his parents on the importance of sharing and caring, which have greatly influenced his philanthropic work.

Djokovic discusses the significant influence he wields as a public figure and professional athlete, ...