Novak Djokovic says he feels like a Greek man after moving his family to Athens. The tennis legend left his home in Belgrade, Serbia, last year to relocate with his wife, Jelena, and their two children, Stefan and Tara, to Greece.
The 38-year-old has clearly been enjoying his time in the Mediterranean country, having reportedly joined a local tennis club. Djokovic’s move was initially meant to be temporary, but Thanos Plevris, the Minister for Migration and Asylum, recently revealed the 24-time Grand Slam winner wishes to stay long term following their meeting. And the Serbian has now admitted he already feels Greek despite living in the country for less than a year.
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Djokovic returned to Athens after his Australian Open final defeat by Carlos Alcaraz earlier this month. However, he admitted learning the language hasn’t been easy. The world No. 3 was asked by an interviewer: “Do you feel like a Greek man?” Djokovic replied: “I do, I do. I still need to learn Greek. I’m not very good with the language; it’s not easy.”
Djokovic’s sudden move to Athens last year came amid claims he had been targeted by the Serbian government after showing support for student-led protests against Serbian president Aleksandar Vucic, which took place at the end of 2024 following the collapse of a railway station in Novi Sad, which killed 16 people.
He voiced his support for the protesters on social media at the time, writing: “As someone who deeply believes in the power of youth and their desire for a better future, I believe it’s 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.” He also dedicated a win at the 2025 Australian Open to one student who was hit by a car during a protest and turned up to a Serbian basketball game wearing a hat which read ‘Students are Champions’.
Djokovic has not openly spoken out against President Vucic, but last year, ahead of his move to Athens, it emerged that he hoped to move to Greece using the Golden Visa programme, which grants residence to non-EU citizens who invest in the country. And the recent Aussie Open finalist now seems to be committing to life in his new home.
He previously described the many similarities between Serbs and Greeks, saying in late 2025: “There are many historical, religious, social, and cultural ties between Greece and Serbia that are a big reason why I am here. Also, the weather and the food are incredible, and the coast is one of the most beautiful. I like the lifestyle, and I really feel that the Greek and Serbian people are like brothers. That is the biggest reason.”
Djokovic secured his first ATP Tour title in Athens and 101st overall title shortly after moving to the country, beating Lorenzo Musetti in a three-hour-long final to win the Hellenic Championships last year. When asked how it felt to lift the trophy, the Serbian icon replied: “Like at home. I love it! I want to thank everybody for coming out today and all week, supporting me and all the players. It’s been amazing for everyone.”