Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić has commented on Novak Djokovic's move to Athens, expressing support for the tennis star while standing firm on his political views. The relocation followed Djokovic's public backing of anti-government protests in Serbia. Vučić praised Djokovic's recent Australian Open performance but emphasized he will not alter his beliefs due to any celebrity influence.
Novak Djokovic relocated from Belgrade to Athens in September 2025 with his wife, Jelena, and their children, Stefan and Tara. The move came after months of political unrest in Serbia, including student-led protests that Djokovic supported publicly.
Protests began in November 2024 following the collapse of a railway station canopy in Novi Sad, which killed 16 people. Demonstrators accused authorities of negligence and corruption. By March 2025, the protests had spread to 400 cities and towns, drawing around 300,000 people in one gathering. Djokovic addressed the situation on X in March 2025, writing: “As someone who deeply believes in the power of young people and their desire for a better future, I consider it important that their voice is heard. Serbia has enormous potential, and educated youth is its greatest strength. What we all need is understanding and respect. With you, Novak.” He also shared photos of the protests on Instagram, captioning them “History, amazing!”
The support drew criticism from pro-government media, with tabloid Informer labeling Djokovic a “disgrace” and “false patriot who had presented himself as a symbol of Serbia for years only to now flee to Greece.” Journalist Jaschar Dugalic reported that the government targeted Djokovic for his stance, and regime-friendly outlets attacked his character.
In a recent interview on TV Pink, quoted by Sport Klub, President Vučić congratulated Djokovic on his Australian Open run in 2026, where he defeated Jannik Sinner but lost the final. “I wholeheartedly support Djokovic and all the people who wear the Serbian tricolour, and [I am] looking forward to his success,” Vučić said. He added: “[He showed] something incredible in those years [in his win against Jannik Sinner]. [He is] the greatest of this time in a difficult and demanding sport. It is much more than a congratulatory message; he represents his country with dignity and makes it popular. Regardless of the result of the final, I support him.”
Vučić revealed he had spoken directly with Djokovic: “I told him what I thought, now I would say it more harshly. Not towards him, but towards the situation we were in. I will not change my beliefs under the influence of any sports, acting or entertainment star.” Djokovic explained his relocation to CNN Greece in October 2025, citing the weather, food, coastline, and cultural similarities: “It is also because of the weather, the food is incredible... I just love the lifestyle... the Greek and Serbian people are like brothers.” The family's Belgrade Open tournament has reportedly moved to Greece, adding to the debate.
International coverage, such as L’Équipe's front page depicting Djokovic with protesters under the headline “Novak Djokovic – popular and embarrassing,” highlighted the tension. At Wimbledon 2025, Djokovic's “pump it up” celebration was linked by some to the protests, where “pump” had become a slogan. A Belgrade mural of the gesture was later vandalized.
