Djokovic says no to war

Djokovic
 

Tennis players rarely talk about international conflicts, preferring to play it safe by limiting their comments to serves and volleys.

But the possibility of air strikes against Syria has recalled some painful memories for Serbia’s Novak Djokovic and Ana Ivanovic, who broke from their usual routine at the US Open to talk about their personal experiences with war.

Less than two weeks ago, Djokovic addressed the United Nations General Assembly as part of the declaration for an International Day of Sport for Development and Peace next year.

Then on Sunday, after winning his third round match, the world number one spoke about military strikes, recounting his experiences as a child.

“I’m totally against any kind of weapon, any kind of air strike, missile attack,” he told reporters.

“I’m totally against anything that is destructive. Because I had this personal experience, I know it cannot bring any good to anybody.”

Djokovic was not specifically asked about the possibility of military strikes against Syria, although the inference was clear when a journalist asked him for “any thoughts of what’s going on now?”