'Novak Djokovic showed me his true colours - everyone would agree what he's truly like'

One of Novak Djokovic's former coaches has claimed that everyone would discover that the 24-time Grand Slam champion is actually a "wonderful" person - if only they could get to know him. Djokovic is one of the greatest players of all time, but his personality has often been categorised as prickly, with the Serbian tennis icon not afraid to speak his mind on occasion. Pepe Imaz, 51, is a former professional Spanish player and first joined Djokovic's coaching set-up in 2016, 'as a mental guru'.

Imaz, who has spoken out for the starover the years, specialises in sports psychology, and he claims his approach prioritises emotional well-being and personal growth over analysis and results. Speaking to Europa Sur in April, Imaz, who has leapt to Djokovic's defence in the past, gushed over the 38-year-old star, whom he met through Djokovic's brother Marko. "From my experience, Djokovic is a wonderful human being, and everyone would discover this if they could get to know him beyond the player, beyond what is portrayed in the media, beyond what is portrayed in competitions," he said. "He has a big heart. He is sensitive, empathetic, and generous beyond measure. He is open to everyone and loves to learn."

Imaz has gained an impressive reputation over the years, working with players of the calibre of Fernando Verdasco, Jelena Jankovi, Flavia Pennetta, Daniela Hantuchová and Marcel Granollers. But none seem to have made the impact on Imaz that Djokovic has.

Opening up to Jot Down Sport this year, Imaz detailed how a tricky first meeting with Novak blossomed into a close and personal relationship over time. "[Meeting Djokovic for the first time] was during preseason," he said.

"I went with Marko [Djokovic's brother], and he says our first contact was a bit strange for Novak. He must have thought I was a little crazy (laughs). But anyway, that was just the first meeting. Novak is a very respectful person, even though he likes to be on top of those he loves and do what he can for them.

"We got to know each other better, and he even asked me to go to some tournaments with him. Over time, that relationship has become very close. Much more personal and human than a simple professional relationship. I've always felt truth and closeness in my dealings with Novak, and that's very important."

He continued: "I feel a great affection for him. I am grateful for having had the privilege of knowing him so well, because we shared very profound experiences. It's wonderful to interact with such a person, who also has a great eagerness and desire to acquire new knowledge. He loves reading and interacting with people he believes he can learn from, without prejudice.

"Novak is a wonderful human being. He has shortcomings, like you and me; but he strives to grow as a person and does what he can in that regard. I'm not going to say a word about the extremely difficult times he's been through, but there have been many more than people think."

To be the first to receive the latest tennis news, join our WhatsApp community or tennis newsletter

Imaz chose to share a story from the 2016 ATP Finals that cements his unique bond with the player. It focused on an episode in which Djokovic was beaten by Andy Murray after also suffering discomfort from an elbow injury.

"He [Djokovic] was very angry, but I felt that I had to hug him," Imaz said. "I knocked on the door and everyone was surprised. I opened it a little and asked if I could come in. Novak was sitting in an armchair, his elbows on his knees, looking down. When he heard me, he raised his head and looked at me.

"He didn't answer, but his expression was approving. I approached him, who was sitting about two meters from the door, and asked if I could give him a hug. I then gave it to him. I saw a human being in pain, having not achieved something he so desperately wanted, and I felt the best thing I could share was my respect, love, and affection for him."

Such is Imaz's connection with Djokovic that he has also gotten to know the Serbian legend's wife, Jelena. The Spaniard revealed that the moment in 2016 was instrumental in sealing his friendship with the 10-time Australian Open champion and his family.

"It was a conversation in which we looked into each other's eyes and shared very personal things. It was a privilege to have them open the doors to me, not to their rooms, but to their lives," Imaz added.

"For me, it's the greatest prize anyone can have, more important than any trophy. But of course, sometimes we unwittingly confuse our priorities. Novak is a truly wonderful human being. And so is Jelena, his wife."