Novak Djokovic salutes most cherished team member in emotional end-of-season message
Novak Djokovic has changed the course of tennis history once again in 2023 and his social message to wrap up this season has been dedicated to his biggest supporter.
This was a year to remember for the world No 1, as he won the Australian Open, French Open and US Open titles, as well as clinching victory in the ATP Finals.
He was one win away from the perfect season, but Carlos Alcaraz found a way to beat him in an epic Wimbledon final last July.
Now Djokovic has posted a heartfelt message on his Instagram page to toast his remarkable success, which shows no sign of waning at the age of 36.
Djokovic’s drive to succeed has been heightened by his passion to win major tournaments in front of his two children, Stefan and Tara.
So it was no surprise to see his end-of-season post highlighting the role of his wife Jelana in his success on and off the court.
“What an amazing season this has been,” he wrote. “Forever grateful to my wife for being the best mother I could ask for to kids, while I was making history of the sport. Her support and love that I have been feeling from my family made this historic season possible.
“I would like to congratulate and thank my team for their dedication and efforts. Another very successful year for the team in the books. We will remember this one forever. So many memorable moments that sent chills down our spines.
“Journey continues in 2024. Looking forward to what’s coming up. Onwards and upwards.”
Djokovic has already turned his thoughts to the new season and has confirmed next summer’s Olympic Games in Paris is on his mind.
The tennis event at the Olympics will be staged at the Roland Garros venue which hosts the French Open each summer, where Djokovic is a three-time champion.
“Of course, the Olympics are a huge desire of mine – it’s a unique opportunity, I have a bronze from Beijing 2008,” said Djokovic.
“A lot of things are different at the Olympics – you can’t bring your whole team, some of the routines you usually have are limited; there are a lot of athletes from other sports, which gives you the energy on one hand, but it drains you on the other.
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“All those things you mentioned – I want it all, why not, and we’ll see where it ends.
“I’m ready for this challenge, I just think about getting to the big date healthy.
“I know myself perfectly, I don’t want to be arrogant, but I know that if I’m well physically and mentally, I’m able to do it. It also sounded unreal to win three Grand Slam titles this year. I would love to beat the record of titles won by Jimmy Connors.”
Djokovic currently has 98 career titles to his credit and is 11 behind Connors’s all-time record total of 109.
Winning five or more titles a year will be a challenge for Djokovic as he is playing in less tournaments at the back end of his career and the sands of time will inevitably catch up with him at some point.