Novak Djokovic Reveals 'Biggest Motivation' That Allows Him To Continue Playing Tennis

Novak Djokovic revealed his “biggest motivation” ahead of his first-round match at the ATP 500 event Dubai Open on Monday.

Djokovic recently won his eighth Australia Open title that took his majors’ tally to 17, two behind Rafael Nadal and three behind leader Roger Federer.

Since Federer withdrew from Dubai Open due to knee surgery, Djokovic is favorite to clinch his fifth winner’s trophy in Dubai. He has not won the tournament since his triumph in 2013. Prior to that, the Serbian had won the Dubai Open for three consecutive years – 2009, 2010 and 2011.

Djokovic, who lost his No. 1 rank to Nadal after he failed to reach the semi-final at the ATP World Tour Final in 2019, spoke to reporters ahead of his opening fixture at the Dubai Open. He mentioned that his constant will for improvement has allowed him to continue playing tennis.

“Yes, there is room for improvement and that's my biggest motivation at the moment. That's probably one of the most prominent reasons why I keep on playing this sport and why I put a lot of effort and dedication every single day. I feel that tennis is a great place for me to improve, not just in tennis but also as a human being to build my character,” Djokovic said at a press conference in Dubai.

Further explaining how tennis has affected his life for good, the World No. 2 said, "Tennis, like no other place in life, triggers my emotions. It's an excellent way for me to understand myself on deeper levels. I see tennis as a great school of life in a way. I also enjoy it. I really love to hold the racquet."

"I enjoy the process and the journey. I have a great team of people around me that puts a lot of energy and faith in me, in my game. Together, we create beautiful things on the court and I'm grateful for that.”