We recently had the honor of hosting a unique event at our Elysium Marbella showroom, a gathering dedicated to redefining what it means to be a champion. As proud sponsors of the Novak Djokovic Foundation, “Path of a Champion” programme, we were delighted to bring together a panel of extraordinary individuals to share their stories and insights.
The evening was a celebration of shared values, focusing on the foundation’s “Path of a Champion” program. Ana Ivanović, the program’s author, explained its vital mission: to support parents in navigating the challenging role of raising an athlete. She emphasized the critical difference between healthy ambition and toxic pressure, a theme that resonated throughout the night.
The Power of Family and Freedom
The heart of the discussion came from our special guests, Ana and her daughter, Ivana. Their conversation focused on the idea of legacy, beginning with a powerful question: “How would you like your kids to talk about you once you’re no longer here?”
Ana, the daughter of a legendary football coach, Radomir Antić, shared a moving story about her father’s true legacy, his humility and kindness. She spoke of how countless people remembered him not for his career, but for his character. This, she explained, taught her the importance of staying grounded and helping others.
Ivana, a former professional tennis player who now works as a football agent, echoed this sentiment. She shared how her grandfather’s and father’s values, not their sports knowledge, are her greatest strength. It was their focus on values and freedom that empowered her to choose a different path, one where she now uses her experience to help other athletes.
The Courage to Change Direction
One of the most impactful moments was when Ana recounted Ivana’s decision to quit professional tennis. Instead of applying pressure, Ana immediately gave her daughter the freedom to choose her own path. Ivana recalled how her mother’s unconditional support made the difficult decision feel “like a piece of cake.”
This powerful story underscored that true support means prioritizing a child’s happiness and well-being above all else, and that the courage to change direction can lead to an even more fulfilling life.
Redefining the Champion
The evening concluded with a beautiful redefinition of the word “champion.” For Ana, it’s not just about winning. A champion possesses a “champion spirit”, the ability to overcome obstacles, to keep going after a loss, and to inspire others with a positive mindset.
At Elysium Marbella, we believe this is the ultimate definition of success. The path of a champion is not just about victory on the field, but about building a life rich in values, resilience, and the power to inspire others. We are proud to support the Novak Djokovic Foundation in this mission, and we look forward to creating more such meaningful moments in the future.