Djokovic is perhaps the most recognisable face in Serbia

Dubai: Serbian star Novak Djokovic realises he is no pretender to the throne in men's tennis. With the Australian Open title under his belt - his first Grand Slam win - earlier this year, Djokovic has his priorities lined up before taking over from Roger Federer.

"It is important to be more consistent if I want to be the world number one," Djokovic told media at the pre-tournament conference.

"The past few weeks have been a great time for me and the Australian Open was the biggest achievement of my career. Now I need to keep that momentum going and build up on this success," he added.

Djokovic, only 20, had a dream run at the season-opening Grand Slam in Melbourne, defeating Federer in an excruciating semifinals and then cruising home to a 4-6, 6-4, 6-3, 7-6 win against Frenchman Jo-Wilfried Tsonga in the final.

"I was overwhelmed with that win. And it became even more special because I had my family to celebrate with me. It was such a special moment for me and for Serbian tennis," Djokovic said.

He was treated to a hero's welcome on his return to Belgrade in the first week of February. He hurled his racquet into the crowd from the city hall balcony while describing the reception held in front of nearly 15,000 fans as "unreal".

The country had come to a standstill during the final while bars and restaurants were crammed with fans' parties after Djokovic's triumph. The tennis star's parents own a pancake shop at the Mount Kopaonik skiing resort in south Serbia and this was so packed that they could not fit in everybody.

"As a child I used to watch our politicians and great men standing on the balcony and imagine myself standing there as well. And that day, it was a dream come true," Djokovic said.

For a price

Fortunately or unfortunately, fame comes at a price. Djokovic cannot even walk down the streets in Serbia without being approached by people, as he is perhaps the most recognised face in the country today.

"There is no privacy any more, and that's what I like to have. So I find it more comfortable being in Monte Carlo [where is currently lives]," Djokovic said.

Despite the fame and adulation, he is trying very hard to find the right balance between the sport and life. "I am trying to stay grounded, and the family and the people I care about are so very important at this juncture," he added.

Up close

A keen soccer buff

It's always a tussle for world number three Novak Djokovic when it comes to choosing his favourite football club - AC Milan or Manchester United?

"They are the best," Djokovic told Gulf News.

"I admit Arsenal is a good team too. But I am a Manchester United fan as well as an AC Milan fan, and I think they are superb," he smiled.

Djokovic also follows other football leagues around Europe and has Spanish giants Real Madrid among his favourite sides.

The 20-year-old Serbian's father Srdjan was an excellent footballer and wanted his son to take up the sport. But Djokovic showed a lot of talent for tennis at a very early age as he turned professional when barely 17.

His biggest win so far has been the Australian Open title in January this year.

-Alaric Gomes