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Djokovic Finds Inspiration in UCLA Football Squad
Tennis legend trains with college athletes, reflects on team camaraderie.
Mar. 2, 2026 at 6:31pm
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Novak Djokovic, the 24-time Grand Slam champion, found inspiration during his preparations for the Indian Wells tournament by training with the UCLA football squad. The Serbian tennis star highlighted the camaraderie and team spirit he misses as an individual athlete, and shared a message of resilience and mindset with the college players.
Why it matters
Djokovic's experience with the UCLA football team provides a unique window into the mindset of one of tennis' all-time greats. As an individual athlete, Djokovic often battles alone on the court, so his appreciation for the team dynamic and desire to impart wisdom to young athletes speaks to his holistic approach to the sport.
The details
While training on the UCLA tennis courts ahead of Indian Wells, Djokovic spent time observing and speaking with the university's football squad. He was struck by the sense of shared effort, encouragement, and team spirit that individual sports often lack. Djokovic shared a message with the players about the importance of mindset and resilience, emphasizing that 90% of life is about how one reacts to what happens.
- Djokovic is preparing for the Indian Wells tournament, which takes place in March 2026.
- The Serbian tennis star's visit to UCLA occurred in the lead-up to the Indian Wells event.
The players
Novak Djokovic
A 24-time Grand Slam champion and one of the greatest tennis players of all time.
UCLA Football Squad
The football team of the University of California, Los Angeles, where Djokovic trained and interacted with the players.
What they’re saying
“As an individual athlete, one of the things I really miss is the team spirit that you build and maintain here every day. I see how much you enjoy supporting each other, encouraging each other, and fostering that spirit. It can only benefit you as a team, individually, as a coach, the entire community, and, of course, the university you are a part of.”
— Novak Djokovic
What’s next
Djokovic will now turn his focus back to the Indian Wells tournament, where he seeks his first deep run since 2016. The five-time champion has struggled at Tennis Paradise since 2017, but with the Australian Open final behind him and a third seed position in the draw, he is determined to change the narrative.
The takeaway
Djokovic's experience with the UCLA football team highlights the value of team camaraderie and shared effort, even for individual athletes. His message of resilience and mindset resonates beyond the tennis court, serving as an inspiration for young athletes to embrace the power of teamwork and support.
