Serbian scientists announced that they had discovered a new species of insect to which they have decided to give Novak Djokovic’s name in homage to the tennis star, for his speed and tenacity skills.
Serbian public television RTS reported that the insect was discovered by a group of researchers from the University of Belgrade in a cave on Mount Povlen, near the city of Ljubovija, about 160 kilometers west of the capital.
Nikola Vesovic, one of the members of the research team, said: “It is a very small insect, totally blind and depigmented, with very long legs and antennae,” said the scientist, a professor at the Biology Faculty in Belgrade.
But it was the speed, tenacity, strength and elasticity of the animal that led the researchers to name it after the Serbian champion, former world number one with 21 Grand Slam titles.
“He is a predator in the basement, just like Novak is a kind of predator on the tennis courts,” said Professor Vesovic.
The “snail” Djokovic
It is not the first time that Novak Djokovic has inspired scientists.
Last year, a freshwater snail discovered in Montenegro was named Travunijana Djokovici.
When informed of the baptism of the new species with his name, the Serb appealed to his usual good humor.
“I don’t know to what extent that is symbolic, because throughout my career I have always tried to be fast and then a snail was named after me,” laughed Djokovic. “Maybe it’s a message for me, telling me go slower! “
According to the international journal Subterranean Biology, the new species was discovered in the Vriješko Vrelo spring, in Montenegrin.
“The new species is named after Novak Djokovic, a famous Serbian tennis player, to recognize his enthusiasm and energy,” says the magazine.
Djokovic has never been shy about revealing his affinity with nature. After winning the 2018 US Open, the Serbian attributed his turn of the season to the time he spent at the Montagne Sainte-Victoire in France.
Although it was a surprise to learn that a species of snail got his name, Djokovic was intrigued.
“I am honored that a new species of snail has my name, because I am a huge fan of nature and ecosystems, and I appreciate all kinds of animals and plants, “said Djokovic.” I try to live in harmony with nature. The news made me laugh. “
With information from AFP and ATP Tour
Source: Clarin
