Serbian star Novak Djokovic opened up on Jay Shetty’s podcast, speaking about his personal life, the importance of mental health, and the impact that the retirements of Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer had on him. Currently ranked No. 7 in the world, Djokovic admitted that saying goodbye to his greatest rivals marked a turning point in his career, prompting him to reflect on his own legacy and the future of tennis.

The weight of historic rivals

For Djokovic, the rivalry with Nadal and Federer was crucial in pushing him to become one of the greatest players in history. With striking honesty, he admitted that their retirements left a void: “A part of my career went with them.” The Serb added that his mission now is to pass on what he has learned and support the natural evolution of tennis.

The multiple Grand Slam champion also emphasized that the sport’s future lies in the hands of the younger generation, whom he believes are capable of surpassing what his own generation accomplished. “Sport is a cycle. Now it’s time to inspire and watch the new players write their own stories,” he said.

Mental health and balance off the court

Beyond competition, Djokovic stressed the importance of caring for the mind as much as the body. He recalled how his upbringing included practices unusual for a child, such as meditation, classical music, and poetry. Today, he continues to rely on prayer, conscious breathing, and introspection as pillars of his daily life.

“The most important match is played off the court,” he reflected, admitting that embracing vulnerability and emotions has been key to his personal and professional growth. Even after defeats, he revealed that he needs solitude to process what happened and to transform pressure into motivation.

Legacy and purpose beyond tennis

The Serbian also spoke about his projects outside of sport, including ventures in the wellness industry with products aimed at improving physical and mental recovery. For him, sharing his experience is part of his vocation: “The greatest success is inspiring others to take care of themselves.”

He also highlighted the role of his wife Jelena and his family as his foundation of stability. In his view, true legacy isn’t measured in titles or statistics, but in the positive impact he can leave on people’s lives.

With these reflections, Novak Djokovic not only honored the indelible mark of Nadal and Federer, but also revealed the more human and contemplative side of a champion who seeks to transcend beyond tennis.