Novak Djokovic receives Serbia’s highest honour – Tennis News
Serbian number one Novak Djokovic was awarded his country’s top award, Karadjordje’s Star of the 1st degree, by Serbian president, Boris Tadic. Djokovic spectacular performance last year led him lift this prestigious honour.
President Tadic praised Djokovic, saying: "Novak deserves the medal for special merits in representing Serbia."
Ranked number one in the South African Airways ATP (Association of Tennis Professionals) World Tour Rankings, Djokovic was surprised to lift this award. He outshined everyone last year and went on a 41 match unbeaten run which included 10 titles. His impressive
run of form let him grab three of the four Grand Slam events (Australian Open, Wimbledon and the US Open). The Serb ended the season with an exceptional 70-6 win-loss record.
The Serb clinched titles at the Dubai ATP event (stunned top seeded Roger Federer), Indian Wells, Miami, Madrid and Rome Masters 1000 event (upset top seeded Rafael Nadal). His winning run was broken at the French Open when he crashed out by the Swiss Master
but he rebounded at the Wimbledon, the next tournament he played. Mustering his season further, Djokovic bagged the US Open and Montreal Masters 1000 event after this.
"I may have dreamed of lifting the trophy at Wimbledon, but I could never have thought that my country would reward me with such great honour," the surprised Serbian was quoted in an interview.
The 24-year-old was stress at the end of 2011 as he displayed dismal performance at the Barclays ATP World Tour Finals but he recreated his magic this season. He cruised to grab his fifth Grand Slam at the Australian Open, the first ATP tournament he played
this year. He tumbled over David Ferrer, Andy Murray and Nadal to triumph this first Grand Slam of the 2012.
"I am indebted to my people, and I will do my best to continue representing our beautiful country in the best possible way," said the high flying Serb.
Last week the Serb was awarded the Laureus World Sportsman of the Year. He also unveiled his wax sculpture at the wax museum in Serbia.
Djokovic is bidding for his 30th title and his fourth straight title at the Dubai Tennis championship, an ATP World Tour 500 series event.
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