After winning on his 37th birthday, Novak Djokovic makes a very candid admission.

The world No. 1 acknowledged that a defeat in Geneva would have likely destroyed his birthday, but he managed to avoid that situation and had an amazing birthday instead.

On Wednesday, Djokovic turned 37 years old and defeated Yannick Hanfmann 6-3, 6-3, to make his debut on the Geneva clay courts.

After the game, the record 24-time Grand Slam champion was given a birthday cake and the entire stadium sung him a happy birthday, which was a surprise provided by the organizers. Djokovic ended up sharing the cake with ball kids and other players on the court because he was so enamored with the whole thing.
That struck a chord with me. I’m overjoyed to have won on this memorable day. The birthday held the key. Although my birthday definitely wouldn’t be the same if I didn’t win the match, it’s still good to be at this event for the first time and have my family here to support me.”

That was one special birthday party, for sure. Love for me, win for you! I’ve won so much love from all of you, and I sealed it with a W. 👌🏻 I’ll see you again in the morning. Older guy in the same workplace 😉. Pic.twitter.com/QYk8x6V8NK #ATPGVA
Djokovic’s good fortune extended beyond his victory and birthday cake.
In addition, Djokovic is spending this week in Geneva with his family, which he adores.

“I spent the majority of my childhood living with my aunt, uncle, and two cousins. It’s great because we don’t get to see each other very often these days. Both on and off the court, I’m spending some very great time,” Djokovic remarked.
Additionally, Djokovic was ecstatic to begin his Geneva campaign with a victory because, coming into the French Open, he desperately needed a win.

I felt that match play was the best practice available to me right now, so that’s why I decided to come and play. It’s beneficial to me because that’s how I’ll try to get the form I need for Roland Garros,” Djokovic said.