Novak Djokovic is one of the best tennis players in the history of the sport. With 23 grand slams and 39 Masters titles, the Djoker has effectively put an end to the debate regarding the GOAT in men’s tennis. One of the most important factors in his rise to dominance in the ATP Tour is, undoubtedly, his family. Djokovic comes from a loving and supportive home which helped him achieve his dream of becoming a great player.
Regardless of his advancing years (36), he has managed to remain at the top of the sport for the last decade. Now as he heads into the US Open for a chance at his 24th grand slam, his fans are more interested in his personal life. Here’s all you need to know about his parents.
Novak Djokovic’s family background
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Novak Djokovic was born on May 22, 1987, in Belgrade, Serbia, to Dijana and Srdjan Djokovic. He is of Serbian origin on his father’s side and of Croatian origin on his mother’s side of the family. Marko and Djordje, his two younger brothers, have also played professional tennis.
Both Dijana and Srdjan nurtured Novak’s love for tennis ever since he first showed interest in the sport.
Novak Djokovic’s parents first observed his love for tennis when he was a toddler, specifically when he was four years old. His parents gave him a mini-racket and a soft foam ball, which his father claims became his favorite toy. His parents then sent him to Novi Sad for a tennis camp. There, he was groomed into the player we see today.
How Novak Djokovic is a product of his parents’ support
Novak would not have been the same tennis player if not for his parents. The two have been a constant pillar of support for their son. When he was a toddler, his parents owned a fast-food restaurant. The world number 2 was then discovered by Jelena Gencic, a Yugoslav tennis player, who was encouraged by Dijana to train the Djoker and eventually send him abroad for further training.
When Novak became a seasoned player, they did not leave his side. They opted to travel with him throughout the world for several of his tournaments. His father is also quite outspoken, as has an open dislike for Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal. If he ever feels the behavior of his son’s opponents is not cordial, he is quick to call them out on his social media or interviews.
Djoker once made a statement about his father when he appeared in a controversial situation. During the Australian Open this year, Srdjan took a picture with supporters of Russia amidst the Russia-Ukraine conflict. The situation escalated quickly as the Djoker and all of his family were criticized for their act.
The Serbian had to clear the air. He said, “He [my dad] had no intention to support any kind of war initiative. It’s unfortunate the misinterpretation of what happened escalated.”
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Regardless of the controversies evoked due to his father’s comments, Novak is proud of his parents and they of him.
Are Novak Djokovic’s parents married?
As it usually is, there are several ups and downs in a relationship. Sometimes the bad periods can go on for long. For people who have become public figures, the slumps can become a matter covered by the headlines. Some speculations and rumors flew around about the relationship between Srdjan and Dijana. But they have proved that all the rumors are false and their relationship has been as strong as it was when it began.
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The Djoker and his family are close and supportive of each other. The 23-time Grand Slam champion finds constant support in his parents, regardless of the situation.
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