Nikola Jokić
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NBA 3-time MVP Nikola Jokić shed tears as his horse triumphed in a major harness-racing event, offering fans a rare glimpse of his personal passions.

On 27 July 2025, the Serbian basketball star's horse, Demon Dell'Est, crossed the finish line first at the prestigious Dužijanac harness-racing event in Subotica, Serbia.

Jovic jumped a fence to embrace his jockey and team, tears streaming as he celebrated with a champagne shower. This reaction was a stark contrast to the calm composure fans are used to seeing from him on NBA courts.

How a Childhood Passion for Horses Became Central to Jokić's Life

Jokić's connection to horse racing began at the age of 12 in his hometown of Sombor. His father, Branislav Jokić, told NBA.com, 'I encouraged him to focus on basketball first, knowing his passion for horses would still be there later'.

Now, his stable Dream Catcher owns several horses and competes across Serbia's harness-racing circuit, which attracts more than 5,000 spectators at major events each year.

'Horse racing is the best sport in the world', Jokić told Serbian media, explaining that the sport connects him to his family heritage.

Fans Say Jokić Showed More Emotion Than Any NBA Championship

Social media was flooded with reactions after the race. 'More emotion than when he won the finals', one fan posted, while another commented: 'The NBA is just a side gig for him'.

Per ESPN, Jokić often talks more about horses than basketball. American jockey Tim Tetrick, who met him in 2023, said, 'He's so passionate about racing that I could see him becoming a trainer one day'.

Balancing NBA Stardom With His Passion for Horses

Jokić's love for horses does not detract from his on-court dominance. Last season, he averaged 29.6 points, 12.7 rebounds and 10.2 assists per game, per ESPN stats. These figures rank him among the league's top three players in each category, a feat matched by only two others in NBA history.

Yet Serbia's racing world provides balance and grounding. As Time Magazine reported, the harness-racing industry generates millions of pounds (£) annually, but Jokić's involvement is rooted in passion rather than profit.

Why Jokić's Story Resonates With Fans Around the World

Jokić's tearful celebration resonated globally because it revealed the human side of one of basketball's biggest stars.

  • It showed that success is not just about NBA titles or salaries.
  • It highlighted how family traditions can shape identity.
  • It reminded audiences that athletes often find fulfilment outside their professional careers.

'This is my real world', Jokić reportedly told friends after the race, per Paulick Report. That sentiment resonated with fans who value authenticity over image.

A Passion Beyond the Basketball Court

Nikola Jokić may dominate NBA courts, but his heart clearly belongs to harness racing. Watching the 7-foot centre cry as Demon Dell'Est crossed the finish line offered fans a rare, unfiltered moment.

For those seeking to understand what motivates athletes beyond their careers, Jokić's story has the answer: passion, heritage and a purpose rooted in something greater than sport.

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