Novak Djokovic faced many challenges growing up, which he believes made him stronger.
Born in 1987 in Belgrade, Serbia, during a turbulent time, Djokovic experienced the chaos of the NATO bombings in 1999. These events were pivotal in shaping his character and determination.
Reflecting on those times now at age 37, Djokovic recalls how quickly he had to mature amidst the war’s uncertainty. During an interview with La Nacion, he shared how living under constant threat affected him deeply.
| Name | Age | Points | Stats 2024 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🇷🇸 Novak Djokovic | 37 | 8,360 | 18 - 6 |
Memories of Fear and Strength
He described the horror of not knowing when or where the next bomb would fall: “It’s a horror. The worst thing anyone can experience… every day.” One particular memory stands out—his mother fainting after hitting her head during a night-time siren alert.
“I remember my mother one night… you’re sleeping… you hear the siren,” he recounted. His family would scramble to find safety in their building’s basement, often crying together through sleepless nights.
Fans might think it’s amazing how such tough experiences shaped him into a champion. Even though these memories are painful, they also highlight resilience and unity within his family.
At just 12 years old then, Djokovic had two younger brothers who were even more frightened by these events. Yet looking back now as an adult, he sees how it brought them closer together and built inner strength: “It’s an experience that strengthened us as a family.”
While acknowledging this growth, Djokovic emphasizes that no one should endure war to gain mental toughness: “I don’t wish it on anyone.” He believes there are other ways to build resilience without suffering through conflict.
What do you think? Can hard times really make us stronger?
