Novak Djokovic has taken a swipe at the world’s media by saying there is ‘less free journalism and information’ with many publications sticking to a certain narrative.
Speaking in Serbian to reporters at the Paris Masters earlier this week, the 20-time Grand Slam champion admits he is affected at times by what is written about him in the news. Although he didn’t mention any specific examples. There is currently mass speculation over whether Djokovic has received his COVID-19 vaccination with the Australian Open potentially banning players who are not jabbed. He has refused to speak publicly about his vaccination status but has previously expressed concerns over having it earlier this year.
The 34-year-old has claimed that the media is controlled by ‘one or two sources’ with many spreading what he describes as propaganda to suit their own narratives instead of the truth. Stating he believes this is the case for journalism both in his home country and around the world.
“It doesn’t affect me as before, because in a way I’m used to it – from the world media, even from the domestic one,” web portal Krstarica quoted Djokovic as saying. “Propaganda is being created, I’m drawn into all that on the basis of something I said earlier. The information system has gone in a direction that is no longer one that is the basis for journalism. There is less free journalism and information… more is controlled from one or two sources, so propaganda is spread that suits the elite.
“It certainly affects me, but that won’t stop me from advocating for things that I think are right,” he added.
Djokovic says he doesn’t pay attention to the news but comes across stories via social media. He currently has 8.8M followers on Twitter and 10M likes on his official Facebook page.
“I haven’t read newspapers or applications, or printed editions, I haven’t watched the news on TV for several years,” he said. “However, due to my presence on social networks, I come across this information that is leaked through the media.”
In the past the Serbian has been under the spotlight for many reasons. His decision to co-found the Professional Tennis Players Association sparked a mixed reaction in the sport and a surge in media interest. The PTPA aims to address player challenges and influence fair change within the business of professional tennis. Although it has been opposed by both the ATP and its player council whose members include Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal.
Djokovic has also previously been criticised by his at times fiery attitude, his unfortunate disqualification from the 2020 US Open and how he is received by fans, especially when he plays against other members of the Big Three.
Due to the mass interest in Djokovic, who has earned more prize money than any other player in history, it is hard for him to escape all the attention. But how much is he affected by it?
“I can’t say it doesn’t affect me – I’m human, I have emotions, and of course I care… As much as I care about advocating true values, fighting for justice and truth, I care so much about what people in general think of me,” he explained. “My life does not depend on it, because I know who I am and what I am, I try to live life according to the right postulates. Yes, (if) I am wrong, I am wrong, but injustice strikes me even when lies are spread.”
Djokovic won his first match since the US Open in Paris on Tuesday when he defeated Marton Fucsovics in three sets. He will play either 15th seed Gael Monfils or Adrian Mannarino in the next round later this week.
