Novak Djokovic’s New Beginning in Greece
Following a tumultuous period in Serbia marked by civil unrest, tennis superstar Novak Djokovic has opted for a new beginning in Greece. This month, Djokovic made headlines not just for his legendary prowess on the tennis court but for his outspoken stance on social issues. His recent relocation comes on the heels of widespread protests in Serbia that erupted after a tragic infrastructure collapse claimed 16 lives, igniting public outrage and calls for accountability from the government.
Protests and Public Outrage
Since November 2024, these protests—primarily led by university students—escalated into a movement involving civil disobedience across nearly 400 towns and cities, with many accusing the Serbian authorities of excessive force in their response. Djokovic publicly sided with protestors in January, highlighting instances of violence directed at them, a statement that gained significant traction given his status as one of the nation’s most celebrated athletes.
Relocation and Family Life
Adding further substance to the speculation surrounding his ties to the Serbian government, reports surfaced that the Serbia Open, a tournament owned by Djokovic and his family, was relocated from Belgrade to Athens. On Sunday, just days after a loss in the 2025 US Open semifinal to Carlos Alcaraz, the 24-time Grand Slam winner settled permanently in Glyfada, a suburb of Athens.
Greek media outlet Proto Thema shared photographs of Djokovic engaged in training sessions with his son, Stefan, at a local tennis facility. Along with his son, Djokovic has enrolled his daughter, Tara, in an elite private school in Greece. The article also highlighted his interactions with local fans, emphasizing his popularity in his new neighborhood, where residents frequently approach him for pictures and autographs.
Reflections on Government Dynamics
Djokovic’s profound affection for Serbia suggests that his decision to leave is a grave reflection on the existing governmental dynamics, indicating a deep-seated rift that he perceives as irreparable. Residing in Greece not only provides a fresh start but also aids in managing the family’s tennis tournament without the prevailing tension from Serbian authorities.
Future Competition Schedule
Amidst these life changes, speculation surrounds his 2025 competition schedule. Although Djokovic has stated that the Grand Slam events hold paramount importance in the latter stages of his career, he is still expected to participate in the upcoming Six Kings Slam in Riyadh next month—a tournament he attended last year, which also marked his last showdown with Rafael Nadal before the latter’s retirement.
Stars like Alcaraz, Jannik Sinner, Alexander Zverev, and Taylor Fritz are set to join him, with Sinner having made history by winning $6 million in prize money last year. While Jack Draper was also slated to compete, injury has sidelined him.
Despite a potential qualification for the 2025 ATP Finals, Djokovic’s participation remains uncertain following his absence from the previous year’s event. As he embarks on this new chapter in Greece, the future of his athletic career continues to unfold with much intrigue.
