Djokovic: I see countries in the region as my own

BELGRADE - The world's best tennis player Novak Djokovic said in an interview for Belgrade's Blic that he sees all countries in the neighborhood as his own, and that he is happy about every success of athletes from this region.

Djokovic emphasized that he respects athletes who have achieved great success and that he cheered for Croatia with all his heart at the World Football Championship.

Djokovic added that he sees neighboring countries as his own, and that he respects Croatian footballer Luka Modric, who was declared the best footballer in the world, especially those who come from "such a small country".

"I know what the political situation is and I know that the wounds from the war are still fresh for many people... I firmly believe that sport should always stay out of politics," said Djokovic.

He added that athletes show with mutual respect that it is above all else.

"They are our first neighbors, both Croatia and Serbia and Bosnia and Macedonia, and somehow I see them as my own. I have never had a different opinion and I will stick to it," concluded Novak Djokovic.