Yago dos Santos draws inspiration from Djokovic, relishes being Zvezda fans' favorite / News - Basketnews.com

Yago dos Santos broke down his relationship with Crvena Zvezda fans and explained what he envies the most in Novak Djokovic's mindset.

Credit: Igokea m:tel/Marija Vuruna Credit Igokea m:tel/Marija Vuruna

Watching Novak Djokovic in the VIP seats of the Stark Arena isn't uncommon. The world's most famous tennis player is a basketball fan and more so a Crvena Zvezda Meridianbet Belgrade supporter.

Yago Mateus dos Santos

MIN:17.26PTS:6.5 (41.67%)REB:1.67As:2.33ST:0.5BL:0TO:1.33GM:6ProfileEuroLeague2023/2024

"I come from Serbia and I support Crvena Zvezda. It's, without a doubt, the number one club for me. It is the team that was the champion of Europe in 1991. I am also a fan of AC Milan. Those are the two clubs that are close to my heart," Djokovic said at the recent Ballon d'Or award ceremony in Paris.

But Djokovic' impact on Zvezda works both ways. In an interview with Mozzart Sport, Yago dos Santos revealed that he found inspiration in Nole, who shared his videos on social media after his big triumph at the Nitto ATP finals in Turin. What has made a special impression on Dos Santos is how the Serbian star defies the whistles of the audience and the way he manages to find motivation.

"I love him," the Brazilian guard said.

"I froze when I saw him in the arena for the first time: 'God, Djokovic is here'. I love his mentality. Whether he wins or loses, he always stays the same and just wants to win," Yago continued and then drew from his experience of playing the Serbian derby against Partizan.

"It's very important. I saw the fans booing him and how he reacts. That's a perfect example, because we played the derby against Partizan, with the whistles of their fans. We must enjoy such atmospheres. When they celebrate my failures, it's good for me. I enjoy playing under pressure," he argued.

The opposing fans motivate him, but Zvezda supporters push him forward. The crowd seems to always have his back, while the younger fans regularly wait for him before and after the games for a picture and autograph.

"I love it. I live here alone, Brazil is too far away, the family has to work... I came here to play, and the fans shout my name, unfurl Brazilian flags... I feel at home, more confident," he reflected.

"They give me more confidence, especially when the outcome is uncertain. I play for the club and the fans who trust me. When I came in, I wasn't playing my best, but they were on my side. Now I'm playing somewhat better, I know I can do much better, and they're still there. I love to play for this club and for these fans," he concluded.

Support BasketNews so we could make even better content.