Key Highlights
- Djokovic has moved his family to Athens, Greece.
- The move comes after controversial political stances he took in support of student protesters against the Serbian government.
- Djokovic’s decision is seen as a response to backlash from Vucic loyalists in Serbia.
- He cites family environment and children’s well-being as primary reasons for the move.
New Home, New Opportunities: Novak Djokovic’s Move to Greece
In a significant development that has turned heads both in sports and politics, tennis legend Novak Djokovic confirmed his family’s relocation to Athens, Greece. This move marks a sharp departure from the political climate he faced back home in Serbia.
A Shift from Belgrade to the Acropolis: The Journey Begins
The 38-year-old player first hinted at this monumental decision when 500 miles south of Belgrade, his family was spotted in Athens, Greece. Djokovic’s move comes after he supported student protests against President Aleksandar Vucic’s government following a tragic accident in Novi Sad that killed 16 people.
Djokovic’s tweets and public appearances, including wearing a “Students are Champions” hoodie during a basketball match in Belgrade, were met with fierce backlash from Vucic loyalists. These supporters have labeled him as a “traitor” for his perceived shift in political allegiance.
Athens Welcomes the Greatest: A Homecoming of Sorts
The Hellenic Championship, a 250 ATP Tour event, provided Djokovic with an opportunity to compete on home soil. In his first-round victory at the Panathenaic Stadium in Athens, he received enthusiastic support from local fans, who celebrated him with signs reading “Novak, Goat” and “Go, Nole.”
Despite the controversy surrounding his political stances, Djokovic expressed a sense of belonging in Greece. He said, “Good evening, Greece.
I love you. How are you? Good, good,” before switching to English, adding, “Athens is in my heart, no question about it.”
The move to Greece has not only provided Djokovic with a new home but also ensured that his children, Stefan and Tara, will have access to education through the British private independent school, St Lawrence College. Greek, a new addition to his repertoire of languages, is being taught to help him better integrate into local culture.
A Legacy in Flux: The Impact on Serbian Tennis
While Djokovic’s decision has been seen as a personal and familial choice, it also raises questions about the future of Serbian tennis. Andy Roddick, a former world No1, reflected on Djokovic’s significance to his homeland: “If I’m Serbian, this guy’s on the shortlist of all time… He is the biggest thing that has possibly ever existed in his country.” Roddick further noted the impact of Djokovic’s actions, stating, “It stinks. It’s sad to see.“
Djokovic’s move aligns with his long-standing commitment to family and well-being, as he stated, “We have two young children and we are trying to adapt and find the best environment for them.” This decision is part of a broader trend where top athletes navigate complex political landscapes while maintaining their careers.
The future of tennis in Serbia remains uncertain. With Djokovic no longer representing his home nation in major tournaments, the void he leaves could reshape the landscape of Serbian sports and politics.
