"When it's hardest, I remember my people waiting in line for bread and milk, it gives me strength"

During the Australian Open final, Novak Djokovic overcame a very difficult situation and was able to defeat Dominic Thiem, who was up two sets against one at that point, and had chance to win a break point in the fourth set.

At the post-match conference, journalists asked Novak how he finds strength in the most difficult moments and to compare this with his biggest rivals, Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer, who also often find the strength to cope with a problem in the most difficult situations.

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"It's hard to speak on behalf of Roger and Rafa, I obviously have utmost respect for these guys, I can only speak on my own behalf. We all grew up in different circumstances, in different countries, had different upbringing. My upbringing was in Serbia during several wars, during 90s, in difficult times and embargo (sanctions) on our country when we had to wait in line for bread and milk and water and some basic things in life. These things make you stronger and make you hungrier for success in whatever you choose to do."

"That probably has been my foundation, the difficult life together with my family, with my people. Going back to that and reminding myself of where I came from always inspires me and motivates me to push even harder. That's probably one of the reasons why I manage to find that extra necessary mental strength to overcome challenges when they present themselves," said Novak.

No doubt, many in Serbia will be proud of his words.

Take a look at Novak's statement:

(Telegraf.rs)