Novak Djokovic is widely-recognised as one of the greatest players in the history of tennis.
The Serbian superstar, a 24-time major champion, is in Indian Wells hoping to win his first title at the event since 2016.
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Djokovic, who has won the title on five occasions, survived a scare to beat Kamil Majchrzak 4-6, 6-1, 6-2 in his opening match.
The 38-year-old struggled to deal with the conditions in Indian Wells against an opponent who expressed his idolisation of Djokovic ahead of the match.
Ahead of the contest, Djokovic revealed who had inspired him to pick up a racket; naming two former Wimbledon champions.
Novak Djokovic names Pete Sampras and Monica Seles as his tennis inspirations
Being an inspiration to Novak Djokovic is one of the most significant compliments an individual can receive.
Earlier this week, the Serbian star revealed his own inspirations, highlighting Pete Sampras and Monica Seles in particular.
In an Instagram video published by ‘Alex the Tennis Pro,’ Djokovic said: “I watched the Wimbledon finals, Pete Sampras.
“Pete was the one that inspired me – Pete Sampras and Monica Seles.”
It is easy to understand why both Sampras and Seles are Djokovic’s tennis inspirations.
Sampras is a 14-time Grand Slam champion: a player widely considered to be the greatest of his generation and an individual who boasted one of the greatest serves in tennis history.
As for Seles, she is undoubtedly one of the most inspiring figures in tennis history.
Seles won 53 singles titles during her career, including nine Grand Slam titles. Remarkably, eight of these major titles were won while Seles was a teenager.
Born into the Yugoslavian state in what is now Serbia, Seles was inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame in 2009.
Monica Seles has acted as a ‘mentor’ for Djokovic
During the 2025 Australian Open, as reported by CLAY, Djokovic discussed the possibility of bringing a female coach into his team.
And while Djokovic’s answer was ‘no’, he did discuss who he would consider, if he were to hire a female coach.
“The only one I could see myself working with is Monica Seles, now that you mention it,” Djokovic said.
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“Actually, Monica has been a sort of mentor to me over the years. We’ve been in touch for a long time.
“Whenever I had injuries or when I was disqualified in the U.S., she always reached out in those tough moments, offering support and advice.”
