Nikola Jokic recently drew attention to himself with remarks unusual for professional athletes.
legend:
different moods
Nikola Jokic and Cristiano Ronaldo.
Imago / ZUMA Wire / ABACAPRESS
“Basketball is not the main thing in my life. And it probably never will be.
These are not the words you would expect from Nikola Jokic, the figurehead of the Denver Nuggets: the superstar, two-time MVP of the league who, at the time of this statement, was on the verge of reaching the NBA Finals (which he won, by the way, with ease) stood up.
Giannis Antetokounmpo, basketball player and star too, went in a similar direction for the Serbs, only this year with the Milwaukee Bucks wasn’t quite as successful as desired. After the surprising defeat in the playoffs against Miami, the Greek player was asked if he considered this season a failure.
Michael Jordan played for 15 years. He has won 6 tournaments. So the other nine years were a failure?
His sweet answer: “Michael Jordan played for 15 years. He has won 6 tournaments. So the other nine years were a failure? Is that what you want to tell me? In sports there will be no failures, only good days and bad days.
This attitude is always healthy: Antetokounmpo and Jokic do not define success only by lifting a trophy. Especially in the United States, fans seem to be accustomed to different attitudes than Europeans. Some Bucks fans have reacted indignantly to Antetokounmpo’s relativism: Of course, sports are about winning.
Eat, sleep and fight for the club
In contrast to two basketball icons, for example, there is the work ethic and winning mentality of Cristiano Ronaldo. Although he has achieved it all in football, he is always first and last on the training ground. He always wants to win and often does because of his formidable qualities. He lives for football. As a result of this dedication, he is now spending the evening of his gold career in Saudi Arabia.
I’m here to win and nothing else. Victories bring us joy.
In a speech in the dressing room shortly after his return to Manchester United two years ago, Ronaldo said: “I am here to win and nothing else. Victories bring us joy.” In order to achieve this, each player must “eat, sleep, and fight for this club”. Shortly thereafter, United beat Newcastle 4-1, Ronaldo’s brace helped bring his dream comeback, and the fans at Old Trafford were over the moon.
Successes speak of Ronaldo and NBA players. You must lead the right way through the healthy mix. One thing is clear: it remains fresh and controversial when the ultimate MVP Jokic answers the question of how it feels to be the NBA Champion:
“It’s good. We’ve done the job and we can go home now.”
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