Novak Djokovic remains a true icon. During a turbulent 2024 season, marked only by his Paris Olympics gold, he struggled to win titles. This rough patch followed him into 2025 with early exits in Qatar, Indian Wells, Monte Carlo, and Madrid. It’s a stark contrast to the winning streak the GOAT once had, right? But if there’s one thing Djokovic has been consistent about, it’s his love for family. After his 2015 US Open win, he said, “I’m enjoying this year even more than any of those before because I’m a husband and a father and it makes everything sweeter.” Now, at Roland Garros, he’s setting the stage with sweet shoutouts to his little ones.

Fresh off his 100th title win in Geneva, Djokovic stepped onto the French Open court on Tuesday. He faced Mackenzie McDonald in the opening round. Djokovic won in straight sets, 6-3, 6-3, 6-3, in just 1 hour and 58 minutes. Looks like he’s on track for another Grand Slam glory. But after the match, there was one thing Nole couldn’t help but express—gratitude.

In his on-court interview, Djokovic spoke in French: “After matches, when I see my daughter and my son, I realize that everything I do I do it for them.” He was talking about his son, Stefan, who was born in October 2014, and his daughter, Tara, who was born in September 2017. Isn’t that adorable?

Djokovic often gives shoutouts to his kids during matches. Earlier this year, his family was with him in Melbourne for the Australian Open. His run ended in the semifinals after a hamstring injury forced him to retire after the first set. After beating Carlos Alcaraz in the quarterfinals, Novak seemed distracted during his interview, glancing at his box.

He noticed his kids were still awake at 1 a.m., after a long 3-hour and 37-minute match. He said, “Sorry, I heard your question, But I’m surprised my kids are still here. I love you and thanks for supporting me. But when are you going to sleep tonight?” Then, after noting their shyness in the spotlight, he quickly returned to tennis questions.

There’s no doubt that Novak Djokovic is a proud dad. He often calls his children “my angels” in interviews and drops heartfelt Instagram posts. And being such a successful player, his kids clearly learn a lot from him. But at the same time, Nole gains just as much wisdom and inspiration from them in return.

Novak Djokovic opens up about how he learns from his children

Back in 2022, Djokovic celebrated a special moment on and off the court. While he won his sixth Italian Open title, his son Stefan claimed victory in his first club tournament in Serbia. After his win, Djokovic shared, “Well, the journey started successful. My son won the tournament today. I just received that news. A sunshine double today. It’s a very small club tournament. Obviously it doesn’t really matter. The result is secondary. It was nice to see him playing.”

He made it clear he never pushed Stefan into tennis. Instead, Stefan’s passion inspired him. “I have to remind myself, I have privilege to be father of wonderful kids. I try to take that energy, childish energy, and fuel my inner child because I tend to forget about my inner child a lot.”

Djokovic’s tennis journey began in 2003, but his big breakthrough came in 2008 at the Australian Open. At 20, he won his first Grand Slam, shaking up Federer and Nadal’s dominance. Over 22 years, he has set records and won titles, showing fierce dedication. Yet, his playful side shines on court.

He earned the nickname “Djoker,” with his playfulness, silly dances, and spot-on impressions on court. Which he explains, “Everything is so serious. It’s your profession. It’s your job. You got to be this. You got to be that. You got to be disciplined. Sometimes we take life too serious. They remind me of that connection, that pure energy.”

Now, Novak Djokovic is ready for the next round at the 2025 French Open, chasing his 25th Grand Slam. He’ll face the winner of the all-French match between Corentin Moutet and Clement Tabur. With his kids inspiring him, fans are eager to see if he can make a deep run. What do you think? Will his family’s love inspire him to push for Grand Slam glory? Share your thoughts in the comments!