Just days after Novak Djokovic faced a wave of boos during his courtside appearance at a EuroLeague game between Panathinaikos and Maccabi Tel Aviv in Greece, the story behind his stay in Athens has taken a fascinating turn. The Serbian legend, spotted alongside his nine-year-old son Stefan amid the jeers of an 18,500-strong crowd, wasn’t just there for the ATP 250 event; he was home. Yes, Djokovic has quietly made Greece his new base since the summer, and now, the 24-time Grand Slam champion has finally revealed the reason behind his move, a decision rooted in peace, balance, and a fresh chapter beyond the roar of tennis arenas.

In a recent video shared by an X handle named Frani, Novak Djokovic appeared calm and composed ahead of his match against Alejandro Tabilo. During the chat, the Serbian maestro was asked about his recent decision to make Greece his new home. His answer came straight from the heart. “There is a lot of historical, religious, cultural, social ties between Greece and Serbia that is big part of the reason why I’m here, is also because the weather, the food is incredible, you are on the nicest coastlines in Europe, in the world…I really feel that Greek and Serbian people are like brothers,” Djokovic shared with a serene smile.

The 24-time Grand Slam champion has always been deeply spiritual, and his connection with Greece feels like a natural extension of that belief. Since settling there during this summer, Djokovic has immersed himself in the local culture, often sharing glimpses of his admiration for the country’s ancient history and warm hospitality. 

Djokovic’s affection for Greece has also extended beyond leisure. He’s gearing up to compete in the inaugural Hellenic Championship at the Telekom Center, a brand-new ATP 250 event in Athens. The tournament, set for Tuesday, November 4, will see the world No. 1 headline the draw, blending sport and symbolism as he brings top-tier tennis to his new home base.

On social media, Novak has documented his love affair with Greek culture. His latest Instagram post captured him standing outside the Academy of Athens, captioned, “Recharging with some energy from Greek Gods.” Just days before, he shared snapshots from the historic Panathenaic Stadium, a place that has long stood as a symbol of sporting greatness and heritage.

The Greek public has responded with warmth and admiration. During a EuroLeague clash between Olympiacos BC and Monaco at the Peace and Friendship Stadium, fans erupted into applause when Djokovic appeared in the stands, a far cry from the jeers he faced earlier during a different basketball match in Athens. It was a moment that reflected how deeply Greece had already begun to embrace him as one of its own.

However, behind this idyllic shift lies a more complex truth. Reports suggest that Djokovic quietly relocated his family from Serbia due to increasing political pressure and unrest back home. Amid ongoing protests in Serbia, which Djokovic has publicly supported, the tennis star decided to move his wife and two children to Athens. Stefan, 11, and Tara, 8, are now reportedly enrolled at St. Lawrence College, a prestigious international school in the Greek capital.

Adding to the relocation’s permanence, Djokovic has purchased a residence in Athens and may soon apply for Greece’s Golden Visa, a program granting residency through investment. The move also comes with a professional twist: the family-run Belgrade Open has been relocated to Athens under the new title, the Hellenic Championship, directed by Novak’s brother, Djordje Djokovic. 

As the world now watches him prepare for the ATP Finals, one thing is certain: Novak Djokovic’s new chapter in Greece isn’t just a move; it’s a message of reinvention, resilience, and rebirth.

Novak Djokovic’s ATP Finals fate sealed with major Turin update

Recently, tennis journalist Jose Morgado sent waves through the tennis world, sharing: “Italian Tennis Federation president says Novak Djokovic WILL play the ATP Finals next week.” The announcement came as a massive relief for fans, especially since Djokovic himself had stayed silent. After being away from the tour for nearly a month, the Serbian superstar is finally gearing up for his grand return at the ATP Finals in Turin from November 9 to 16. But before that, he’s testing his rhythm in Athens, where he faces Alejandro Tabilo in the second round.

Yet, things weren’t always this certain. A few weeks ago, Djokovic left fans hanging with his uncertainty. “So after Shanghai, the only tournament I know I’m going to play is the one in Athens, and then we’ll see if I play Turin or not. I’m not sure yet,” he said last month, sparking speculation about whether his 2025 season was nearing an early close.

The doubts deepened after the Shanghai Masters, where Djokovic appeared visibly hampered by back issues before pulling out of the Paris Masters without a word of explanation. His absence left many wondering whether age and fatigue were finally starting to weigh on the 24-time Grand Slam champion.

Still, others believe Djokovic’s silence and selectivity are part of his grander strategy, preserving his body to extend his dominance deep into his late 30s. The man has defied time before, and now, he stands ready to do it again.

With Athens lighting his return and Turin awaiting his legacy, the question remains: can Novak Djokovic still summon the old brilliance when it matters most?