Throwback Video: 7-year old Djokovic always wanted to be a world champion

Djokovic began the year in spectacular fashion, leading Serbia to victory at the inaugural ATP Cup in January. He then proceeded to capture his eighth Australian Open title a few weeks later. After defeating Stefanos Tsitsipas to claim his fifth Dubai title, the Serbian has garnered an impressive 18-0 winning streak to start the 2020 season.

Having been playing tennis since the age of four, it might be assumed that Djokovic developed his winning mentality in his adolescent years. However, the 32-year old has always been driven and this could not be more evident in the clip below.

Taken from a 1994 interview in Serbia, a 7-year old Djokovic was already viewed as someone with the potential to become a star. Even more impressive is the fact that he seemed to understand the various aspects of the game, and knew in his heart that he possessed what it took to become a champion.

Interviewer: What do you like the most about tennis?
Novak: Forehand, backhand, volley. With those we win the opponents.
Interviewer: Are the opponents angry when you win? Novak: No.
Interviewer: And you when they win?
Novak: No.
Interviewer: So a true fair play. Ok, so tell me, do you play (children games)?
Novak: I play... I play at night, because during the day I have school, then in the afternoons I practice, after practice I do homework, and that's why I play at night.
Interviewer: Is tennis for you a game or an obligation?
Novak: An obligation.
Interviewer: What's your goal?
Novak: My goal in tennis is to be a champion.

[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_g66pGnbdp4[/embed]