The Decline of Serbian Tennis

Losing isn’t a problem, not even against weaker opponents on paper. It’s not a problem if “it’s not your day.” Experiencing a debacle isn’t a problem either. It’s all part of the sport.

However, the problem lies in appearing completely disinterested and absent. Looking apathetic. Lacking a huge desire for success. More precisely, having no desire to win and giving up at the first obstacle.

That’s how the Serbian tennis players looked in recent days. They were swept by Slovakia in the Davis Cup, but the more significant impression was the despondency they displayed in the match against a rival with ten times more motivation. It’s unbelievable that the jersey wasn’t a motivation for them to show their worth on the court. Let’s ask ourselves: Why didn’t these guys just go on vacation and to the beach, if that’s what they needed after the tour in Australia?

It’s much more honest to say: I can’t do it, rather than just showing up to “get the job done”. What we saw in two days of tennis in Kraljevo really only looked like that… Playing for Serbia is never just a job. After all, these guys were supposed to have learned that in the national jersey.

Whenever Novak Djokovic responded to Serbia’s call, he would be motivated 100%. Not one percent less. When he couldn’t, he didn’t come. Much fairer.

In September, our team faces the play-off to stay in the World Group of the Davis Cup. It would be good if only those who sincerely want to play for the national team are in the team then… Kurir sport / M. B.