The Serbian center of the Denver Nuggets, a two-time NBA MVP, is renowned for his ice-cold composure on the hardwood, yet outside the basketball arena his emotions sometimes overflow. A fresh clip from Belgrade showed the NBA star unable to hold back tears when the horse he owns crossed the finish line first in a trotting race.
Youth That Smelled of Stables
The future champion grew up not only with a ball in his hands but also among paddocks — as a teenager Jokic helped his uncles care for trotters. His love of horses remained even after he learned to dish alley-oops and pile up triple-doubles.
A Champion’s Emotions Past the Finish Line
In the video posted on social media Nikola jumps as if after a thunderous dunk and then covers his face with his hands. It is hard to imagine a more human moment for a player accustomed to making clutch decisions with an impassive expression.
A Racing Victory as a Personal Reward
For most fans it is just another race, but for the basketball player it symbolizes painstaking work. Jokic invests in training his horses as meticulously as he hones his rebounding on the glass, and the trotter’s win became confirmation that his approach is paying off.
Fans’ and Teammates’ Reaction
Twitter instantly filled with congratulations: teammates on the Nuggets joked that the center can now claim a “double” — a golden horseshoe and another championship title. Fans noted how touching it was to see a superstar remain a down-to-earth guy with genuine emotions.
An Equestrian Hobby as a Tool for Balance
Coaches have long emphasized that caring for animals helps Jokic maintain mental freshness during the NBA’s demanding season. Hours in the stable act as a form of meditation, enabling the center to take the court fully focused and ready to record yet another double-double.
What’s Next?
The NBA season is already on the horizon, and supporters wonder whether this racetrack triumph will affect the Serb’s game. One thing is certain: Nikola Jokic has shown that true passion is not confined to the basketball court, and tears of sporting joy are equally salty — whether from hoisting the Larry O’Brien Trophy or celebrating a beloved horse’s victory.
