Novak Djokovic, freshly crowned U.S. Open champion, revealed a heartfelt secret weapon that fueled his triumph on Sunday’s finals – his 6-year-old daughter, Tara. Djokovic, basking in the glow of his victory, shared the touching story during an interview on the 3rd Hour of TODAY on Monday.
In a candid conversation, Djokovic opened up about the crucial role his daughter played during the intense match. “My daughter was making eye contact with me. Every single time I needed encouragement and strength, she was there. She was giving me a fist bump,” he expressed, reflecting the profound impact that Tara had on his mental fortitude during the high-stakes final.
Post-victory, Djokovic’s immediate desire was to share the triumphant moment with his No. 1 fan. “Actually, that was the first thing I wanted to do, once I dropped the racket on the side after I shook hands with my opponent, just to hug her,” he revealed to the TODAY hosts, Craig Melvin, Sheinelle Jones, and Vicky Nguyen in Studio 1A.
The tennis star’s family, including his 9-year-old son Stefan, witnessed the historic win from the players’ box. Surrounded by his parents, wife, extended family, coaches, and friends, which notably included Matthew McConaughey and Camila Alves, Djokovic celebrated the milestone victory. In a poignant tribute to the late Kobe Bryant, Djokovic donned a “Mamba Forever” T-shirt while accepting the championship trophy.
Reflecting on the significance of having his closest loved ones present, Djokovic expressed his gratitude. “It was incredible to have the closest people in my life there to witness this historic moment. And for me to be able to share it with them is something that is truly remarkable,” he said.
The win, marking Djokovic’s 24th Grand Slam title, carries added weight as he tied Margaret Court for the record of most-ever championship titles. Notably, at 36 years old, Djokovic became the oldest player to clinch the U.S. Open title. When asked if the gravity of his achievements had sunk in, Djokovic confessed, “Not yet.”
While acknowledging the whirlwind of emotions, Djokovic emphasized the joy of spending quality time with his team and family, relishing the celebrations that followed the monumental victory. He shared a personal sentiment, revealing that winning a Grand Slam in front of his family was a cherished item on his parenting bucket list. “When I became a father, it was one of my greatest wishes that one day I (would) get to win a Grand Slam in front of them on the stands, and they (would be) old enough to realize what’s happening. So that was a reality last night, and it was amazing,” he expressed.
As Djokovic continues to bask in the glow of his record-tying victory, the heartfelt moments shared with his daughter on the court underscore the profound impact that family has on his remarkable tennis journey. The U.S. Open win not only solidifies Djokovic’s place in tennis history but also highlights the invaluable support and inspiration drawn from the love and presence of his wife and children.