Novak Djokovic tells the Gulf Times that while he engages well with Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer off court on tour issues, it is not a simple process.
"Roger, Rafa and me do talk to each other on issues," Djokovic said. "We respect each other a lot, but it's really hard to communicate with somebody who is your biggest rival. I believe that we have a great amount of respect for each other and for what we have achieved. Each of us is modest, self aware and composed and this is good for the sport. It's good to have people who are educated, successful, but modest and well presented in public."
In the late summer of 2010, Djokovic asked his parents, Srdjan and Dijana, not to travel with him as much anymore and they are no longer at every big event he plays. He also no longer allows his family to join him in the locker room prior to matches.
"My parents live through the emotions of every point when they watch me play," he said. "It's like they are playing themselves! In a way it's normal to expect that because they are parents and we feel their love, their support and their stress as well. It's up to us to adjust and use it in a good way. My parents allowed me to become what I am and realize my dreams."
The five-time Grand Slam champion added that he believes that his spectacular season last year was predestined.
"I believe that everything in life happens for a reason," said. "The reason I did what I did in 2011 was written down already by the Almighty, but on the other hand I think that I worked very hard for it. I always believed in what I could do. I always believed in my qualities and when you make the commitments you get the outcome."