Novak Djokovic LAUDS former coach Boris Becker as one of the ‘mentally strongest’ people reflecting to his tough jail time
Novak Djokovic is all support for his former coach Boris Becker who is restoring his life post-incarceration.
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Novak Djokovic and Boris Becker( Credits: @eurosport and The New York Times)
Novak Djokovic had nothing but admiration for his former coach, Boris Becker. The Australian Open champion praised the German for his strong mental strength as he rebuilds his life after facing a jail term and deportation from Great Britain.
In 2022, Becker faced legal charges for hiding and transferring money and assets during the proceedings of his 2017 bankruptcy. He was sentenced to two-and-a-half years in prison but got released after serving eight months. His release was followed by his deportation from Great Britain. The former World No. 1 was previously convicted of tax evasion in Germany in 2002.
The Serbian player had previously been coached by Becker for three years, starting in 2013. The ‘famous’ duo went on to achieve six Grand Slam trophies together. As Becker is back in the tennis frame to restore his life post-incarceration, Djokovic has extended his support for the former mentor.
“Boris is a dear friend, of course, my former coach. I’ve had amazing success in my career with him in my box as a coach. He’s one of the mentally strongest people I know”, he said during a media conference in Rome.
“Considering what he was going through in the last couple of years, coming out still walking tall and proudly, it’s something that I admire. We all try to navigate through life in the best possible way. We all make mistakes”, Djokovic said.
Djokovic also expressed that he hoped to meet his former mentor at the Roland Garros and wished him luck in his future endeavors.
“A great friend and dear person to me in my life. I wish him all the best. I can’t wait to see him. I didn’t see him in the last few months since he’s out. Hopefully soon in Paris get a chance to meet with him”, the Wimbledon champion said.
“I see he’s doing some talks, sharing his story. I’m sure that a lot of people can get inspired and learn from what he has to say. He sincerely is so open in sharing that, showing who he is, a very, very honest person”, he further added.
As the Italian Open defending champion, Djokovic is through the first round in Rome, after defeating Tomas Martin Etcheverry. He will next be facing Grigor Dimitrov in the round of 32.
Novak Djokovic extended his condolences to the families of school shooting in Belgrade
Novak Djokovic registered his first win at the Italian Open, after defeating Tomas Martin Etcheverry in straight sets. While continuing with the post-match proceedings, the Serbian paid an emotional tribute to the victims of school violence in Belgrade, Serbia.
The Rome Open defending champion is back at the tournament, where he reached the quarter-finals in all his 16 appearances. He fought a wonderful battle to book his second-round meeting with the Bulgarian player, Grigor Dimitrov. During his on-court interview, Djokovic extended his prayers to the bereaved families of the tragic school violence in Serbia.
“Sincere condolences to the parents. As a father, I can only imagine how those people feel. I hope he gets through all of this. And happy St. Vasilij Ostroski Day”, he said.
Djokovic also wrote his sincere condolence message on the television camera. “Saint Basil of Ostrog, pray to God for us. Elementary school ‘Ribnikar.’ My deepest condolences to everyone affected by the tragedy“.
Earlier, the Australian Open champion had to withdraw from Madrid, due to persisting elbow problems. With Roland Garros just days away, Djokovic is one of the potential contenders along with Carlos Alcaraz and Rafael Nadal.
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Vitasta Singh
(691 Articles Published)