Photographing Novak
I have been drawn to photographing Novak Djokovic and now I know why.
Photographed for Getty Images.
How do you explain what you’re drawn to? Leading up to the 2023 Adelaide International I knew deep inside of me I had to photograph Novak for personal reasons. It wasn’t because of what you might think. Yes, he’s a superstar in the world of tennis and “GOAT” to some, but that’s not why I wanted to be face to face with Novak.
Twelve months ago I watched Novak on television as he was filmed leaving Melbourne after his unsuccessful attempt to avoid deportation and play in the 2022 Australian Open. The image of him being driven away, masked, with head held high and eyes focussed on what was ahead of him is with me to this day. He had been pulled apart by the media and the Australian people in general for not conforming to Australian Government rules. To say the majority of Australia took a dis-likening to him because of his approach to the COVID-19 happenings of the time would be fair. But something about his demeanor has always appealed to me and this was enhanced by his conduct in Melbourne, then cemented yesterday in Adelaide.
It would be easy to think Novak is disrespectful for not following the rules. To the contrary, I saw his attempt to play in last year’s Australian Open as brave. Against the view of the masses, he was true to himself and what he is striving for. He gave it his all. Upon the court dismissing his deportation appeal he left our country respecting the ruling. Is it so wrong to follow your dream, pursue what you’ve been called to do, despite rules and regulations telling you otherwise? He tried. He didn’t get what he wanted. He left. No-one died in the process. But he tried. I like that. I respect that.
The controversy is being re-visited now Novak is back in Australia and there were a few questions directed at him at yesterday’s press conference. His answers were reminiscent of that image I still have in mind of Novak in the back of the car. He responded respectfully focussed on what was ahead of him. I wish I had have made notes of what he said but of course, my job was to photograph him. His answers were along the lines of “I don’t look back, I just look forward” and “I hold no grudges”. Simple really, and such a great philosophy to live by.
This is why I’ve been drawn to being up close and personal to Novak - his energy is clear.
I left that press conference feeling great. Novak is the kind of guy I’d hang around. And as for photographing him. Any day thanks, any day.
