Novak Djokovic is often characterised as a prickly character, but one of his former coaches has claimed that everyone would see the 24-time Grand Slam champion is far from it
Novak Djokovic has been branded a “wonderful” person(Image: Getty)
One of Novak Djokovic’s former coaches insists everyone would realise he’s actually a “wonderful” person if they had the chance to meet the real him. The 24-time Grand Slam winner ranks among the greatest players in tennis history, yet his character has been described as abrasive, never hesitating to voice his opinions when the mood takes him.
Pepe Imaz, 51, is a former professional Spanish player who initially joined Djokovic’s team in 2016, serving as a mental coach. Imaz focuses on sports psychology, and he insists his methods emphasise emotional wellness and personal development rather than analysis and outcomes.
Speaking to Europa Sur in April, Imaz heaped praise on the 38-year-old, who has had his defenders over the years, whom he encountered through Djokovic’s brother Marko, reports the Express.
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“From my experience, Djokovic is a wonderful human being, and everyone would discover this if they could get to know him beyond the player, beyond what is portrayed in the media, beyond what is portrayed in competitions,” he said. “He has a big heart. He is sensitive, empathetic, and generous beyond measure. He is open to everyone and loves to learn.”
Imaz has built an outstanding reputation throughout the years, collaborating with several other players such as Fernando Verdasco, Jelena Jankovi, Flavia Pennetta, Daniela Hantuchová and Marcel Granollers.
Yet none appear to have left the impression on Imaz that Djokovic has. In a candid chat with Jot Down Sport, Imaz revealed how his initial awkward encounter with the Serbian superstar evolved into a deep and personal bond over time.
“[Meeting Djokovic for the first time] was during pre-season,” he said. “I went with Marko and he says our first contact was a bit strange for Novak. He must have thought I was a little crazy (laughs). But anyway, that was just the first meeting. Novak is a very respectful person, even though he likes to be on top of those he loves and do what he can for them.
Pepe Imaz is a close friend of Djokovic’s(Image: Getty)
“We got to know each other better, and he even asked me to go to some tournaments with him. Over time, that relationship has become very close. Much more personal and human than a simple professional relationship. I’ve always felt truth and closeness in my dealings with Novak, and that’s very important.”
He added: “I feel a great affection for him. I am grateful for having had the privilege of knowing him so well, because we shared very profound experiences. It’s wonderful to interact with such a person, who also has a great eagerness and desire to acquire new knowledge. He loves reading and interacting with people he believes he can learn from, without prejudice.
“Novak is a wonderful human being. He has shortcomings, like you and me; but he strives to grow as a person and does what he can in that regard. I’m not going to say a word about the extremely difficult times he’s been through, but there have been many more than people think.”
Imaz opted to recount a tale from the 2016 ATP Finals that solidifies his extraordinary connection with the player. It centred on an incident where Djokovic was defeated by Andy Murray whilst also enduring pain from an elbow injury.
Imaz has gotten to know Djokovic and his wife, Jelena(Image: Getty)
“He was very angry, but I felt that I had to hug him,” Imaz said. “I knocked on the door and everyone was surprised. I opened it a little and asked if I could come in. Novak was sitting in an armchair, his elbows on his knees, looking down. When he heard me, he raised his head and looked at me.
“He didn’t answer, but his expression was approving. I approached him, he was sitting about two metres from the door, and asked if I could give him a hug. I then gave it to him. I saw a human being in pain, having not achieved something he so desperately wanted, and I felt the best thing I could share was my respect, love, and affection for him.”
Such is Imaz’s bond with Djokovic that he has also become acquainted with the Serbian icon’s wife, Jelena. The Spaniard disclosed that the encounter in 2016 was crucial in cementing his friendship with the 10-time Australian Open champion and his family.
“It was a conversation in which we looked into each other’s eyes and shared very personal things. It was a privilege to have them open the doors to me, not to their rooms, but to their lives,” Imaz added.
“For me, it’s the greatest prize anyone can have, more important than any trophy. But of course, sometimes we unwittingly confuse our priorities. Novak is a truly wonderful human being. And so is Jelena, his wife.”