In a career filled with remarkable achievements, Novak Djokovic has always been known for his resilience, discipline, and unyielding determination. His father, Srdjan Djokovic, played a pivotal role in shaping that mentality. However, in a surprising revelation, Djokovic shared a previously untold story that sheds light on a formative experience from his childhood—one that involved a “light” beating in the snow.

Novak Djokovic is no stranger to hardship. Born in Serbia during a tumultuous period in the country’s history, he faced adversity from a young age. From dodging bombings during the Yugoslav Wars to playing tennis on makeshift courts, Djokovic’s rise to the top has been a story of perseverance. While many credit his immense talent, Djokovic has always pointed to his family—particularly his father, Srdjan—as the driving force behind his success.

In a candid interview, Djokovic opened up about the strict, often intense, training regimen his father imposed on him during his youth. Though Novak has mentioned his father’s influence before, this was the first time he shared a specific incident involving physical discipline, a story that left many fans shocked but intrigued.

Djokovic recounted a winter day that has now become a cornerstone memory in his path to greatness. At the age of seven, while practicing in harsh conditions, he had struggled to meet his father’s expectations. Srdjan, known for being demanding, was not pleased with Novak’s performance that day. According to Djokovic, after a disappointing session, his father took him aside and delivered what Novak described as a “light” beating.

“It wasn’t out of anger, but out of passion for my future,” Djokovic explained. “We were standing in the snow, and I wasn’t doing well during the practice. My father wanted me to understand that I couldn’t afford to be weak if I wanted to be the best.”

This story, though shocking to some, fits within the broader narrative of Djokovic’s upbringing. Srdjan was known for pushing Novak to the limits, ensuring that he would have the mental and physical toughness to endure the long journey ahead in the world of professional tennis.

Many might question the appropriateness of such discipline, but Djokovic was quick to defend his father’s actions. In the same interview, he emphasized the cultural context in which he was raised. “In our country, and at that time, discipline was part of love. My father never meant to hurt me, but he knew that I needed to be strong. He believed in me, sometimes more than I believed in myself.”

Srdjan Djokovic, a former professional skier and ski instructor, had ambitious dreams for his son. His methods were unconventional, but they were fueled by a desire to see Novak succeed in a sport that, at the time, seemed unattainable for a boy from war-torn Serbia.

“It wasn’t just about tennis,” Djokovic elaborated. “It was about survival. My father taught me that if I wanted to succeed, I had to be ready to fight for it, both on and off the court. I didn’t always understand it then, but now I realize he was preparing me for the battles ahead.”

Despite the occasional harsh treatment, Djokovic has always spoken highly of his father. Their relationship, while complex, is one grounded in mutual respect and a shared vision. Srdjan’s uncompromising approach helped mold Novak into the fierce competitor he is today, and Novak credits much of his success to those difficult early years.

“Without my father, I wouldn’t be where I am today,” Djokovic said. “He gave me the tools to survive and thrive in a sport that demands everything from you. His discipline wasn’t easy, but it was necessary.”

The story of the “light” beating in the snow is just one example of the many challenges Djokovic faced growing up. Yet, he sees these moments as vital to his development, both as an athlete and as a person. In his view, those experiences taught him the value of hard work, perseverance, and mental toughness—qualities that have defined his career.

Throughout his career, Djokovic has been known for his extraordinary mental fortitude. His ability to bounce back from seemingly impossible situations, his unyielding focus on the court, and his refusal to give up have been hallmarks of his game. Many attribute these traits to his childhood, where his father’s strict methods prepared him for the relentless nature of professional tennis.

Djokovic himself has acknowledged that his upbringing was a major factor in his success. “When I face challenges now, I often think back to those days with my father. If I could handle that, I can handle anything,” he remarked.

His discipline and mental strength have helped him win 23 Grand Slam titles, making him one of the greatest tennis players in history. And while many of his fans admire his technical skills and tactical acumen, it’s his mental resilience that often sets him apart from his competitors.

Djokovic’s revelation about his father’s disciplinary methods has sparked debate among fans and pundits alike. Some view it as a testament to the sacrifices and dedication required to become a world-class athlete, while others question whether such tough love was necessary.

However, for Djokovic, the answer is clear. “I’m not saying that every child should be raised the way I was,” he admitted. “But for me, it worked. My father’s approach gave me the strength I needed to survive in this world, and I’ll always be grateful to him for that.”

Now a father himself, Djokovic has reflected on how his experiences with Srdjan have shaped his own approach to parenting. While he admits that he is not as strict with his own children, he still believes in the importance of discipline and hard work. “I want my children to know the value of effort, but I also want them to feel supported and loved,” Djokovic said.

As Djokovic continues to add to his legacy on the tennis court, this untold story of his father’s tough love will likely remain a key part of his personal narrative. It’s a story of sacrifice, perseverance, and the complicated but profound bond between father and son—one that helped shape Novak Djokovic into the champion he is today.

In revealing this story, Djokovic has provided fans with a deeper understanding of his journey. Behind the trophies, records, and victories lies a childhood filled with challenges, but also with love and support, albeit in an unconventional form.