After involvement in student protests, Novak Djokovic shares post to show support for Serbian mother on hunger strike against government corruption

Novak Djokovic addressed the ongoing political unrest in Serbia after relocating with his family to Athens, Greece. The Serbian tennis star is competing at the ATP 250 event that was formerly held in Belgrade but has now been officially moved to Athens and rebranded as the Hellenic Championship for the 2025 season.

Djokovic has openly expressed his support for anti-government movements in Serbia since the tragic incident in Novi Sad last year, where 16 people lost their lives after a canopy collapsed at a railway station. Mass protests have since become a regular occurrence across the country.

Djokovic also voiced solidarity with student demonstrations opposing President Aleksandar Vučić’s government. His stance reportedly drew backlash from pro-government media, with the Serbian outlet Informer labeling him a “disgrace.”

The ongoing tension and media hostility are believed to have contributed to Djokovic’s decision to relocate his family to Greece.

More recently, a mother who lost her child in the Novi Sad railway station collapse began a hunger strike to protest the government’s handling of the tragedy. She was reportedly mocked by some pro-government figures, prompting Djokovic to share a message of support on Instagram, condemning the insensitivity.

The post read:

"Bol majke ne sme biti predmet ruganja," which translates to "A mother’s pain should never be mocked."

Novak Djokovic's Instagram Story

The 24-time Grand Slam champion is the top seed at the Hellenic Championship in Greece. He spoke about his love for Greece after winning his opening match.

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"It feels really at home, playing in Athens" - Novak Djokovic expressed his love for Greece after shifting from Serbia

Novak Djokovic at the ATP 250 tournament in Athens - Source: Getty

World No. 5 Novak Djokovic is playing the ATP 250 event in Greece as the top seed. He received a bye in the first round and defeated Alejandro Tabilo 7-6(3), 6-1 to qualify for the quarterfinal. During the post-match press conference, the Serbian said he feels truly at home playing in Athens.

"It feels really at home, playing in Athens. A few months ago when I came here with my family, I was very excited because I have always loved Greece," he said.

He noted the strong historical, cultural, and religious ties between Serbia and Greece, praising the warmth and hospitality of the Greek people. Djokovic added that beyond recognition for his tennis achievements, he was moved by how genuinely and kindly people had approached him.

"More than the recognition for my tennis achievement, I feel people have approached me in the most friendly and humane way and that is something that has touched my heart. Athens is in my heart," he added.

Up next, the Serb will take on sixth seed Nuno Borges in the quarterfinal. This will be their first encounter on the ATP Tour.

Edited by Aliasgar Ayaz