Djokovic Moved to Tears Honoring His ‘Tennis Father’ in Athens
Novak Djokovic was visibly overcome with emotion after his second-round victory at the Hellenic Championship in Athens, as a tribute video honoring his late mentor and former coach, Nikola Pilic, was played. Pilic, who passed away in September at the age of 86, was remembered as more than just a coach—he was a guiding figure who shaped Djokovic both as a player and as a person.
Djokovic battled through a challenging opening set before pulling away to defeat Chile’s Alejandro Tabilo 7-6(3), 6-1 in what marked the first top-tier tennis tournament held in Greece in over three decades. His win earned him a spot in the quarter-finals of the ATP 250 event. During the on-court post-match interview, the 24-time Grand Slam champion became emotional as the video tribute to Pilic played, reflecting on the profound influence his mentor had on his life.
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Pilic, a Croatian tennis player, had been a runner-up at Roland-Garros in 1973 and later captained Germany to three Davis Cup titles between 1988 and 1993. Djokovic, who joined Pilic’s academy in Germany at the age of 12, described him as his “tennis father,” emphasizing that Pilic’s impact went far beyond the court. “He was more than just a mentor and a coach, he was a part of my family to me and my brothers,” Djokovic said. “I definitely wouldn’t be who I am today without him.”
Reflecting on Pilic’s legacy, Djokovic said that the lessons and values instilled by his coach will live on through his own career and influence on the sport. “As long as I play tennis and as long as I live, I will celebrate his name,” Djokovic shared, adding that Pilic’s contributions to tennis will be remembered for generations.
The 38-year-old Serb, who moved with his family to Athens earlier this year, was also touched by the warmth of the local crowd at the Telekom Center, describing the experience as feeling “really like home.” He expressed gratitude for the friendly reception he received, noting that the people’s kindness went beyond recognition for his tennis achievements.
Djokovic admitted that he felt extra pressure facing Tabilo, who had beaten him in their previous two encounters. “I was more under tension before this match than I would be before some others,” he said. Yet, overcoming that challenge made the victory even more meaningful, especially in a city that had embraced him as one of its own.
In a moment that blended triumph and tribute, Djokovic’s win in Athens became more than just a match—it was a heartfelt acknowledgment of a mentor who helped shape a legend. The memory of Nikola Pilic will continue to inspire not only Djokovic but the world of tennis for years to come.
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