NATO Bombing and Novak Djokovic: The Shocking Connection from Belgrade!
Did you know that the war and NATO bombing in 1999 literally shaped the career of our number one tennis player, Novak Djokovic? Yes, you read that right! In 2019, the BBC came to Belgrade, specifically to Banjica, the part of the city where Novak grew up, and spoke with his neighbors and family members. Their stories clearly show that those tough years left a deep mark on young Novak.
The Mural and the Joke about Ana Ivanovic
Novak often trained at the Partizan Tennis Club, where a mural still stands featuring him and Ana Ivanovic, our famous tennis player and 2008 Roland Garros winner. Đorđe Milenić, a neighbor who knew Novak’s grandfather Vladimir, shared a funny anecdote: Grandpa Vladimir often told Novak he should marry Ana. Of course, it was just a joke, as Ana is happily married to German footballer Bastian Schweinsteiger and has three children, while Novak has a family with Jelena Djokovic and two children.
War, Tennis Career, and Life in Belgrade
Neighbors emphasized how hard it was to grow up during wartime, but also how that experience shaped Novak as an athlete and a person. Tennis was his refuge, a place to escape chaos and fear. While the world fights over critical resources like lithium and conflicts continue, Novak’s story proves that champions can rise from the ashes.
Families and Happy Marriages
Though many speculated about a relationship between Ana Ivanovic and Novak Djokovic, the truth is they are both happy in their families. Ana with Bastian and three children, Novak with Jelena and two children. Their careers and lives developed in parallel, but without romantic ties between them.
Conclusion
This story reminds us that behind every great star is a great struggle. War and hard times didn’t stop Novak; they made him stronger. And the jokes about Ana? They’re just part of neighborhood humor and good spirit that followed his journey.
If you think this is just another story about a famous athlete, think again! How can war shape someone’s destiny? Got a funny story from your neighborhood? Share it in the comments so we can all have a laugh together! 😉
