What memorable life advice did Novak Djokovic give to the UCLA football team? | ATP Tour
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What memorable life advice did Djokovic give to the UCLA football team?
Djokovic also spent time with NBA stars LeBron James and Luka Doncic
March 3, 2026
UCLA football
Novak Djokovic meets with UCLA football team ahead of BNP Paribas Open.
Written by ATP Staff
Novak Djokovic made the most of his time in California ahead of the BNP Paribas Open.
The man who held the PIF ATP Ranking No. 1 ranking for 428 consecutive weeks during his career took the time to pass on his knowledge to the next generation, albeit in a different sport. Djokovic spoke with the UCLA football team before heading to Indian Wells.
“It is [about] Now,” Djokovic told the group. “Now is the time because 10 percent of life happens to us and 90 percent of life is determined by how we react to what happens to us. “
The five-time Indian Wells champion also explained to The Rugby Players that he misses the team spirit of being an individual athlete.
“Seeing you guys, how much you enjoy supporting each other, encouraging each other, carrying that spirit forward,” Djokovic said. “It just serves you as a team, you as an individual, [your] Coaches and the community at large and of course your university. “
Djokovic, a longtime basketball fan, also took time to sit courtside at a Los Angeles Lakers game and take a photo with LeBron James and Luka Doncic. In the post-match press conference, Doncic shared his highest praise for the ATP No. 1 club member.
“To me, he’s the GOAT,” Doncic said. “He’s here looking at me and it’s unbelievable.”
