Belgrade, Serbia – October 6, 2025 – In an emotionally charged press conference held in Belgrade, tennis legend Novak Djokovic, holder of 24 Grand Slam titles, delivered a heartfelt and urgent message about his father, Srdjan Djokovic. The words of the world No. 1 left journalists and fans alike in awe, as he called on the global tennis community to pause and send love to the man who shaped his extraordinary career. “Let’s stop for a moment and send love to the man who gave birth to a tennis legend,” Novak said, his voice trembling with emotion.

The press conference took place shortly after Novak’s return to Serbia from a European tournament, where he once again showcased his unparalleled prowess on the court. But today, the spotlight was not on his victories. Instead, Novak dedicated the moment to honoring his 63-year-old father, Srdjan, whose sacrifices and unwavering support paved the way for his son’s rise to greatness. “My father is the backbone of our family and the inspiration behind every success I’ve had. He didn’t just teach me how to hold a racket; he taught me how to rise after every fall,” Novak shared, his eyes glistening with tears.

Srdjan Djokovic, a former professional skier and ski instructor at Serbia’s renowned Kopaonik resort, has been a pillar of strength for the Djokovic family. Born into a modest household in Belgrade, Srdjan worked tirelessly to support his three sons—Novak, Djordje, and Marko—in their pursuit of tennis. During the turbulent 1990s, amidst the Balkan wars, he shielded his family and encouraged Novak to keep practicing, even as the sounds of bombs echoed in the distance. “My father sacrificed his own health so I could dream big. He is the most resilient man I know,” Novak declared.

Novak’s message comes at a poignant time, as Srdjan has recently faced political controversies in Serbia. A vocal supporter of student protests against the government, Srdjan has been targeted by some local media outlets and subjected to smear campaigns. The harsh criticism prompted Novak to break his silence. “My father is not a politician; he is simply a man who loves his country and believes in justice,” Novak said firmly, urging fans to show compassion and support for his father’s courage.

The tennis world has responded with an outpouring of love. Social media platforms, particularly X, are flooded with messages of admiration for Srdjan’s resilience and his pivotal role in shaping one of the greatest athletes of all time. Fans have shared stories of Srdjan’s warmth, recalling moments when he cheered passionately from the stands or offered words of wisdom to young players.

As Novak concluded his press conference, he left the audience with a powerful call to action: “Let’s honor the unsung heroes like my father, who give everything for their children’s dreams. Send him your love—he deserves it.” The room erupted in applause, a testament to the profound impact of Srdjan Djokovic’s legacy, not only on his son but on the entire tennis community.