Novak Djokovic labeled a disgrace of Serbia amid news of emigration

"A false patriot who had presented himself as a symbol of Serbia for years only to now flee to Greece," Express reported on Aug. 20, citing Serbian newspaper Informer, which called Djokovic a "disgrace" to the nation.

Negative press against Djokovic has grown more frequent in Serbia, a stark contrast to the praise he long received at home throughout his career.

According to journalist Jaschar Dugalic of Neue Zurcher Zeitung, the Serbian government appears to be targeting Djokovic, undermining his reputation through "regime-friendly media", even though he has not directly criticized the government.

Tensions escalated earlier this month when Djokovic announced that the ATP 250 Belgrade Open would move from Serbia to Greece. The event, now renamed the Hellenic Championship, will take place at Athens’ OAKA multi-purpose arena starting Nov. 2.

Just a year ago, Djokovic was celebrated as a national hero after winning his first Olympic gold medal at the 2024 Games, with government officials even announcing plans to build a museum in his honor.

Novak Djokovic holds up the Serbian flag as he celebrates his first Olympic gold medal at Philippe Chatrier Stadium in Paris, France in August 2024. Photo by Reuters

But relations soured when Djokovic voiced support for student-led protests against Serbian president Aleksandar Vucic. In March 2025, he posted a photo from a protest of 300,000 people with the caption: "History, amazing!" Protests erupted in late 2024 after the collapse of a Novi Sad train station roof killed 16 people, sparking a movement that spread to 400 cities and lasted into early 2025. The tennis all-time great also claimed it was "important" that the voice of the youth was heard.

Djokovic was later accused of mocking the government again when he celebrated his Wimbledon victory in 2025 by dancing. Critics claimed the dance referenced a protest slogan, though the 24-time Grand Slam champion insisted it was simply to a hit song for his children.

Djokovic's father, Srdjan, has also faced media attacks. A pro-government businessman circulated a video alleging Srdjan's association with an accused pedophile, further fueling the smear campaign, Dugalic reported.

In contrast, Djokovic has displayed growing ties with Greece, dining with Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and reportedly searching for a home in Athens' northern suburbs. Greek media also reported that Djokovic and his wife Jelena are considering schools there for their two children, Stefan and Tara.

The moves suggest Djokovic is preparing for life after retirement. Following Wimbledon, he withdrew from the Canadian Open and Cincinnati Masters due to fitness problems. Currently world number seven, Djokovic is expected to return at the US Open beginning Aug. 24.