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Novak Djokovic has opened up on his war-impacted childhood and the “trauma” that still effects him today.
The 24-time grand slam champion sat down with Nine’s Today host Karl Stefanovic for an in-depth interview amid his Australian Open run, which ended at the hands of eventual winner Jannik Sinner on Friday.
Djokovic was born in the Serbian capital of Belgrade and spent much of his childhood seeing war around him.
We’ve been through two wars… for four years from 1992 to ’96 no Serbian athlete could travel abroad for any competitions,” Djokovic explained.
“It was very challenging times. It just toughens you up.
“It could have gone another way, but I believe it was kind of a destiny as well for me to play tennis and to be able to achieve these great things.”
Djokovic, 36, is widely considered the best men’s tennis player ever and has 24 major trophies to prove it.
READ MORE:Jannik Sinner Mocks Novak Djokovic as he top the latest power rankings
His on-court mental fortitude is a feature of his champion ways, and can be credited in part – he says – to his troubled childhood.
“I don’t know to what extent, but there is definitely some connection to my upbringing,” he said.
“I was 12 when we had bombings nonstop for two and a half months, day and night.
At time it appears, mostly when I hear fireworks. When I hear that sound it really reminds me of those bombs exploding, grenades and stuff.
“It’s not super pleasant, I still have a bit of trauma.”
Djokovic fell short of adding a 10th Australian Open title to his already-record haul.
Stefanovic asked Djokovic if he’s dealing OK with leaving his wife and two children at home while he goes on tour.
