Tennis icon Novak Djokovic has reportedly left his native Serbia to settle in Greece following intense political pressure and backlash from state-aligned media. The 24-time Grand Slam champion, who faced accusations of being “anti-national” for supporting student-led protests, has chosen a new chapter for his family in Athens.
A New Home in Athens
According to reports from The Greek Herald and Mail Online, Djokovic has officially relocated his family to Greece. The legendary athlete has already enrolled his 11-year-old son, Stefan, and 8-year-old daughter, Tara, in the prestigious St. Lawrence College, a private school in Athens.
The Djokovic family has reportedly secured permanent residency in Glyfada, an upscale coastal suburb in southern Athens. Recently, photos have surfaced on social media showing Novak playing tennis with his son at a local club and enjoying quality time with his family on the Athenian beaches.
Political Backlash and “Anti-National” Labels
The move comes after a period of significant friction between Djokovic and the Serbian establishment. Protests have gripped Serbia almost daily since a tragic railway station roof collapse last November, which claimed 16 lives. Students and activists have been demanding new elections and government accountability from President Aleksandar Vucic’s administration.
Djokovic publicly sided with the youth movement, stating on social media:
“I am someone who deeply believes in the power of youth and their hope for a better future. I believe it is important that their voices are heard.”
The tennis star further showed his solidarity by wearing a jumper with the message “Students are Champions” at a basketball match in Belgrade. He even dedicated his Australian Open victory to the students injured during the protests.
These actions led government-aligned media outlets to brand him a “traitor” and tabloids to label him a “fake patriot.” While President Vucic maintained he would never speak ill of Djokovic, the public hostility from state-leaning quarters appears to have been a deciding factor in his departure.
The “Golden Visa” and Future Plans
Reports suggest that Djokovic is in the process of applying for a Golden Visa in Greece—a program that grants residency in exchange for investment. The tennis star has already met with Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis twice to discuss his transition.
On the court, the 38-year-old is facing a challenging phase. After losing to Carlos Alcaraz in the US Open semifinals, Djokovic finished the year reaching four Grand Slam semifinals without securing a title. His quest for a record-breaking 25th Grand Slam title—which would move him past Margaret Court for the most in history—continues into 2026.
