Iva Jovic has not been shy in voicing her admiration for Novak Djokovic.
However, this is not an unpopular opinion.
The 24-time Grand Slam champion is widely regarded as the greatest tennis player of all time, and remains hugely competitive on the ATP Tour despite turning 39 this year.
It’s a testament to his former dominance and exceptional longevity that he remains as relevant now as he was a decade ago.
What makes his legacy even more impressive is how keen Novak Djokovic is to inspire the next generation. Iva Jovic is the latest to have outlined this legend’s desperation to nurture the future.
Iva Jovic reveals key Novak Djokovic advice
Speaking to Tennis Channel after her opening-round win at Charleston, she referenced the 38-year-old while discussing her returns.
Smiling, the American claimed: “I was just trying to be adaptable. She can hit all the spots. Sometimes she can double a bit, but when it goes in, it’s very good.
Who has impressed you the most?
“So I was moving up and back, playing around with it, trying to be like Novak on that return, huh? So just emulating him a little bit.”
This provided a natural segue onto Djokovic and the advice he offered Jovic, which she revealed: “Yeah, he’s giving me some great tips.
“I can tell that he has watched my matches, which is surreal. How do you even have time to do that? How am I on your, like, priority list?
“But it’s incredible. He gives me very specific tips about some different tactics I can play, some different versatility that I can add to my game. So I’ve been trying to do it.
“Me and my coach have a joke. You know, if you don’t want to listen to me, listen to Novak at least, right? Because they’re saying the same thing, but it’s a little different when it comes from Novak.”
“So I’m hoping he stays around the tour longer.”
Then asked about his influence on her generation, with Moise Kouama also referenced, she continued: “I don’t know how he does it. I mean, he’s a husband, he’s a father, he’s the greatest player of all time. He knows, what, seven languages?
“I don’t know. Everyone needs a time management plan from Novak because I don’t know how he does it, but he really makes time for young players and wants to help them.”
Jovic concluded by revealing how often they speak: “I have a direct line. I try not to bother him too much, but I text him throughout tournaments, especially when we’re at the same place, and every time I see him, we have a good chat.”
Djokovic backed Jovic to be a future world number one earlier this year.
Other young players whom Novak Djokovic has influenced
Jovic is not the only youngster whom Djokovic has influenced, whether directly or indirectly.
After all, as referenced earlier, Kouame also got a message from the legendary Serbian after he claimed his maiden win at the ATP Tour level.
Will Novak Djokovic play any events on clay this year?
He could skip clay entirely…
Even Carlos Alcaraz has labelled Djokovic as an inspiration, both growing up and now competing against him.
However, his inspirational influence is not tied to just the future of tennis, but also to others of his age and in different sports.
Both Cristiano Ronaldo and Kobe Bryant have outlined their admiration for the tennis hero, respecting his ability to dominate his respective sport just as they once did.
Djokovic’s worldwide appeal truly is unmatched.
