"I am very proud of my roots" - Novak Djokovic expresses love for Montenegro

Former World No.1 Novak Djokovic has never shied away from his Balkan roots, and the Serbian took some time to relay his fondness for the country of Montenegro.

A small country on the Balkan Peninsula, Montenegro plays a role in Djokovic's history as the 24-time Grand Slam champions grandfather hails from the area. Djokovic's grandfather hails from Jasenovo polje near Nikšić, an area that is often visited by the Serbian superstar.

In an interview for RTCG, the 37-year old spoke of his love for the small country. Djokovic stated visiting the area often has a therapeutic effect, as he often feels at peace whenever he visits Montenegro. Additionally, the Serbian reflected on the importance of his grandfather, Vladimir Djokovic, in his life.

"I'm emotional when you mention my late grandfather, he was always there when needed, when maybe I didn't have anyone to go to training with when my parents were busy with work, who I could talk to, he was always special and will always be a special soul in my life, his bond with Montenegro is unbreakable, not only for him but also for everyone who lived with him," began Djokovic. "The love for Montenegro was passed on to all of us, I am very proud of my roots, my family came from Cevo to Nikšić and Jasenovo polje, for the last 5-6 years I have been in Cna Gora for preparations, I got married in St. Stefan, we named Stefan after St. Stefan, Tara after Tara, there are many things that make me happy that my roots are from Montenegro, because 'there is no beauty like this in the world'.
"I was preparing in Budva before the Olympic Games in Paris, that was my wish, because I like to do most of my training in private, but occasionally I also like the audience to be present, I felt before the OI that I needed a little encouragement, in the middle of the season a large number of people came, that's why I also felt great inspiration in Paris. We mostly come in the summer, but I have also been in the winter.

" My mother fell in love with Montenegro and she uses to come every weekend, I was a few years ago in Durmitor in the winter, the winter is very harsh up there, but the summer is beautiful. Whenever I grab some free time, I will come here, because I like it privately and the training conditions suit me, the weather is favorable.
"We are a sport that chases the sun, people are extremely kind both in Boka and Budva, there is a lot of respect everywhere and everyone goes out of their way to meet and I am glad to see many children. Just to be outside and chase the ball."