Djokovic on why he is ‘extremely tiring’ – “If it were easy, everybody would win Grand Slams”

Novak Djokovic elaborated on why he apologised to his team and his family for “torturing” them

Novak Djokovic at Roland-Garros (Michael Baucher/Panoramic)

June 12, 2023

When Novak Djokovic thanked his team and his family in his victory speech, he said: “Behind closed doors, I was really torturing you!”

Coach Goran Ivanisevic agreed with the assertion in his own press conference, describing Djokovic as “not an easy guy”.

Djokovic: I need my family’s support

He also had special words for his family.

“I am a proud father, husband, uncle, brother, trying to be the best version of myself, but what takes most of my energy is my role as a professional tennis player. In order to be this successful, I need to have the support of people around me. Most of them were here today [at the Roland-Garros final], except for my brothers, but they are with me with their heart.

“It’s hard to describe all the emotions – pride, joy, fulfillment, satisfaction, but relief also. I knew that the history was on the line, it’s hard to isolate yourself from all the noise.”

And Djokovic did not forget early influences either.

“[Coaches] Jelena Gencic and Niki Pilic gave me versatility, I didn’t perfect my game solely for one particular surface, although I didn’t play on grass until I was 17. But I did practise on fast courts, slow courts, and I remember them making me play in all kinds of conditions – when it’s sunny, when it’s dark etc, they tried to replicate situations I would encounter throughout my career.

“I am convinced that made me a complete player. If I have to single out something that defines me, it would be my ability to adapt – to an opponent, to conditions, to anything. The foundation that was laid allowed me to be versatile and consistent. It was not only me, but a lot of people that have helped me along the way.”