© Getty Images Sport – Matthew Stockman
Novak Djokovic admits he can be at times difficult to be around but also highlighted that he loves his team and that his occasional outbursts are nothing personal. Djokovic, a record 23-time Grand Slam champion, has a tendency to let his team hear it when he is frustrated or annoyed with something on the court.
After his US Open quarterfinal win over Taylor Fritz, Djokovic explained in detail why stuff like that happens. In his answer, Djokovic suggested there are moments when he needs to be challenged and that there are also moments when those around him need to be challenged because that’s what leads to growth.
Djokovic: It has to be challenging for everyone
“Look, I care about this profession and I take it very seriously. I know that a lot of the other players do too. You know, we expect the highest kind of dedication and I guess involvement from our team members, as our team members and coaching staff expect from us.
The intensity is there. In the heat of the battle, obviously a lot of different things can be done on the court. But overall we are a team, we are sticking together through good times, bad times, and I’m grateful that I have the team that I have.
We have had some tremendous success in the last, especially in the last couple of years. I’m pleased with where I stand. Yeah, I can be difficult, but who is not, again? I don’t know the player playing at the highest level that is easygoing and everything is, so to say, flowers and music.
It has to be challenging for everyone, for the player and for the coaching staff, otherwise there is no growth. I think that’s the way to push each other to the limits and really understand how you can develop the game, how you can become better on and off the court,” Djokovic said.
Meanwhile, Djokovic is set to play Ben Shelton in the US Open semifinal. This week, Djokovic is hoping to lift his fourth US Open title.
