24-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic has quietly relocated his family to Greece. The 2024 Paris Olympic gold medallist reportedly made the move due to growing pressure from pro-government circles in Serbia.
Amid ongoing nationwide protests in Serbia, which Djokovic has openly supported, the Daily Mail reported that he has enrolled his two children-11-year-old Stefan and 8-year-old Tara-at St. Lawrence College in Athens. Reports also suggest that Djokovic has purchased a home for his family in the Greek capital.
Additionally, speculation indicates that Djokovic may apply for a Greek Golden Visa, a residency program granted in exchange for investment.
Djokovic’s support for student protests
The move to Greece followed Djokovic’s expression of support for students protesting against the Serbian government. The protests were sparked by a tragic incident at a railway station in Novi Sad in December that resulted in the loss of 16 lives. In response, students held rallies to protest government corruption and call for political reforms.
Djokovic showed solidarity with the student protests by sharing posts on social media, dedicating his Australian Open victory to an injured student, and wearing a “students are champions” sweater at a Belgrade basketball game. He also shared troubling images from the protests with positive captions.
On social media, Djokovic wrote: “As someone who deeply believes in the power of youth and their desire for a better future, I believe it is important that their voices are heard. Serbia has enormous potential, and its educated youth is its greatest strength. What we all need is understanding and respect. With you, Novak.”
Other changes amidst Djokovic’s move to Greece
These developments have deepened in recent weeks. Besides the change in the family’s address, the family-run Belgrade Open will now take place in Athens. Organizers stated they lacked “conditions” in Serbia to host the tournament.
While Djokovic didn’t deny tensions, he is open to shifting the venue back to Belgrade in the future.
Djokovic’s public image in Serbia has shifted dramatically from national hero to polarizing figure since he showed support for the student protests. At one stage during the pandemic, Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic called him “the greatest ambassador of Serbia,” but pro-Vucic media is now criticizing him.