From rags to riches the current number one in men’s tennis, Novak Djokovic, shares the story of a fight. A fight not on the courts but a fight for life, to save his family, and the fight to have a slice of bread. As per Celebrity Net Worth, Novak Djokovic currently has a net worth of $240 million. However, life wasn’t a bed of roses for the 36-year-old Serbian icon in tennis. And he shared some stories of his past before starting his campaign at the Paris Masters.

It has been over 50 days since his triumph at the US Open, which landed him his 24th Grand Slam in his illustrious career. He is now back on the courts to defend his number-one title at the Paris Masters from November 1. Djokovic explained to the press about his love for the tournament and how eager he is to continue his winning streak and end the year on a high note. He also shared about his motivation to fight to be the best and his inspiration behind such a champion mentality.

Novak Djokovic shares his childhood story of growing up in the middle of a war-torn country

While growing up in Belgrade, the Serb witnessed the 78-day bombing campaigns of NATO in 1999. The family had faced several difficulties during that time. During that period, tennis was not even in the picture of Djokovic’s life; it was more of a fight for survival. He explains how his parents fought to protect the family and carry them through the tough times. Djokovic describes his mother Dijana as ‘a rock’ who kept the family together and his father Srdjan as the ‘driving force of the family’ who instilled belief and positivity in the family during challenging hours.

“I grew up in a country with wars and economic problems. My parents made sacrifices to support my career so it was important to be well surrounded to be able to accomplish my goal,” Djokovic said. He had earlier revealed how the family had once lived on 10 Deutsche Mark (approx $10) during the wars. The 36-year-old reflected on those tough moments. He said how his parents’ determination and resilience helped them become what he is today.

He is now at the top of the world, yet he never hesitates to share his struggles in life. Struggles build character, and surely the leader in him was already born way back in those struggle periods.

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Djokovic speaks about his relationship with Rafael Nadal

From one leader to another, ‘The King of Clay’—Rafael Nadal. Both of them have found themselves on opposite sides of the court in most of the ultimate battles on the court. Born champions have a high regard for each other. Djokovic said that he had played many historic and magnificent matches with the former number one. He feels Rafa has always been a very special player who has always pushed him to do better and become what he is today. So, he always feels it’s very important to be surrounded by the right people on and off the court.

On being asked to share more about his relationship with the Spanish legend, he said they are not friends but have huge respect for each other. Later on, he revealed how dearly he wants to have a drink and talk about life after they finish their careers. It is surely a moment we would love to see. But not at the cost of an end to the epic stories on court. Can Djokovic clinch another trophy in Paris?

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