A new life in Athens

Serbian tennis star Novak Djokovic, the all-time leader with 24 Grand Slam titles, has permanently moved to Athens following months of political tensions with his home country. According to Greek outlet Proto Thema, the 38-year-old has purchased a residence in Glyfada, an upscale coastal area south of the capital, where he now lives with his wife and children.

His two kids, ages 11 and 8, have already been enrolled in a private school and started the new academic year. The champion has been spotted shopping locally with his eldest son, receiving warm greetings from Greek residents, with fans asking for autographs and photos.

Djokovic has already trained at the courts of the Kavouri club, located near his new home. He is also looking to establish a tennis academy in Athens, while for his own training the Tatoi club, situated on the outskirts of the city, is reportedly his preferred option.

Fallout with Serbian politics

The decision comes after a heated standoff with figures close to Serbian president Aleksandar Vucic, who branded him a “traitor” for supporting student-led protests against corruption and in demand of new elections. Since November 2024, large demonstrations have rocked the country following a train station accident in Novi Sad that left 16 dead.

Djokovic publicly backed the students, speaking out about the tragedy in December and dedicating a victory in January to a young woman injured during the protests. On March 15, when more than 300,000 people took to the streets of Belgrade, the tennis legend posted photos of the rally on Instagram, calling it “historic and magnificent.”

A future tied to Greece

Local media report that the player plans to apply for a “golden visa,” a permanent residency permit in Greece granted in exchange for a significant investment. He has also met twice with Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, most recently in August on the island of Tinos.

The tennis icon is expected to attend this weekend’s Davis Cup tie at the OAKA stadium, where Greece, led by Stefanos Tsitsipas, will face Brazil. He has also confirmed his participation in the ATP 250 tournament in Athens, scheduled for November 2–8