The global sports equipment giant, ASICS has announced a strategic partnership with the tennis legend, Novak Djokovic to foster youth sports development worldwide.
The collaboration aims to inspire and empower young athletes to reach their full potential through mentorship, training resources, and innovative product development.
Djokovic shared valuable training advice based on his extensive experience, emphasising the importance of maintaining the passion for the sport and said, “The most important thing is finding balance, such as between technical training and physical fitness, and building a strong foundation for sustainable growth with professional guidance. Stay patient and move forward steadily; this will provide endless motivation on the road to your dreams.”
As part of the partnership, ASICS and Djokovic will collaborate on several initiatives:
- Youth Tennis Programs: Providing resources, equipment, and coaching support to youth tennis programs globally.
- Community Outreach: Organising sports events, clinics, and educational programs to promote the benefits of sports participation.
- Product Development: Creating innovative tennis products tailored to the needs of young athletes.
ASICS has a longstanding commitment to supporting youth tennis, particularly in China. Since 2022, the brand has hosted its own branded event, the ASICS Junior Tennis Tour, which was upgraded to a “China Tennis Junior Tour” Category B event in 2024. Additionally, ASICS partnered with the Samaranch Foundation to create a tennis cultural exhibition that showcased key moments from Olympic tennis
Djokovic’s visit to China offered young players invaluable exchange opportunities and fostered closer ties between Chinese and international tennis circles.
Regarding advice for young tennis players transitioning from entry-level to professional development, Djokovic said, “There are many things I could share, but I think the most important is to stay passionate about what you do and keep connected to your love for tennis. Surround yourself with experts who have deep knowledge and experience in tennis – they can pass on valuable insights that will influence your growth. Also, try to balance your professional life with your personal life. This is especially important for young people, including school and everything that comes with it. Finding that balance is key, and keep in mind that you will change in two, five, or 10 years. Always stay open-minded and curious to discover what you need to implement in both your life and career to become the best version of yourself.”
Looking ahead, ASICS remains dedicated to promoting sports and health. By emphasising physical and mental balance, offering a professional product lineup, and leveraging top-tier domestic and international sports assets, the brand aims to drive the development of Chinese tennis and enhance cross-cultural sports exchange.