As the tennis world gears up for the 2025 Wimbledon Championships, Novak Djokovic, the 24-time Grand Slam champion, is making headlines off the court with plans to relocate his family to Athens, Greece, after the US Open in September. The Serbian superstar’s decision, facilitated by Greece’s Golden Visa program, has ignited a wave of excitement among fans and a lighthearted exchange with Greek tennis star Stefanos Tsitsipas. During Wimbledon preparations, a courtside photo of the two players sharing a smile prompted Tsitsipas to quip on social media, “Novak: ‘So… when are we opening that Greek taverna?’ Me: ‘When you finally learn how to make tzatziki without using soy yogurt.’” This playful jab, poking fun at Djokovic’s plant-based diet, added a humorous twist to the news of his impending move, highlighting their camaraderie and shared cultural ties.
Djokovic’s affinity for Greece is no secret. His connection to the country dates back to 2009, when he felt an electrifying bond with Greek and Cypriot fans during an Australian Open match against Marcos Baghdatis. “I’ve never experienced anything like this. Rival fans chanting my name together. But we’re Orthodox brothers,” he said, reflecting on the moment that deepened his admiration for Greece’s vibrant culture. Over the years, his bond with the nation grew, evident in his visits to Athens, including a 2014 trip with his wife Jelena, where they posed in front of the Parthenon, and a 2017 appearance at a ceremony honoring coach Dušan Ivković. “Γεια σας! Τι κάνεις; Γεια σου φίλε! Ευχαριστώ! Αυτά τα ελληνικά ξέρω,” Djokovic joked, attempting Greek to the delight of fans. His latest visit in June 2025, which included a dinner with Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis at a Kolonaki seafood restaurant, cemented plans to make Athens his family’s permanent home.
The move marks a significant shift for Djokovic, his wife Jelena, and their children, Stefan and Tara. The family is reportedly house-hunting in Athens’ northern suburbs, eyeing a villa once owned by Panathinaikos basketball owner Dimitris Giannakopoulos. “The house is close to the metro station, relatively new, has its own natural gas heating and a parking space,” a source close to Djokovic revealed, noting that he opted to rent the property by paying eight months’ rent in advance for a better deal. The couple is also exploring English-speaking schools, such as Saint Catherine’s, to ensure a smooth transition for their children. The Golden Visa program, granting five-year residency for non-EU nationals investing in Greece, aligns with Djokovic’s plans to establish a tennis academy in Athens, aiming to nurture young talent from Greece and the Balkans. “Djokovic’s presence in our country will be accompanied by a multitude of new activities,” one observer noted, highlighting the potential impact of his investment.
The decision to relocate comes amid strained relations with the Serbian government, particularly after Djokovic’s support for student protests following a tragic rail accident in Novi Sad in November 2024. “As someone who deeply believes in the power of youth and their desire for a better future, I believe it’s important that their voices are heard,” he posted on X, a stance that drew ire from state-controlled media. Tensions with President Aleksandar Vučić, once a supporter during Djokovic’s 2022 Australian Open visa saga, have soured, making Belgrade less viable as a family base. Athens, with its proximity to Serbia, warm climate, and cultural resonance, offers a fresh start. “Greece and Serbia are two relatively small countries without a strong tennis tradition. Stefanos and I are proof that anything is possible,” Djokovic said after defeating Tsitsipas in the 2023 Australian Open final, a nod to their shared journey as trailblazers.
Tsitsipas, currently ranked No. 26 after a challenging season, added levity to the narrative with his tzatziki quip, playfully referencing Djokovic’s vegan-leaning diet. The Greek star, now coached by Djokovic’s former mentor Goran Ivanisevic, is aiming to rediscover his form at Wimbledon, where he faces a tough draw. “It’s a constant puzzle,” Tsitsipas admitted, reflecting on his recent struggles. Meanwhile, Djokovic, at 38, is chasing an eighth Wimbledon title to match Roger Federer’s record, despite recent losses to Carlos Alcaraz in the last two finals. “I’m going to do everything possible to get myself ready,” he vowed, undeterred by his French Open semifinal exit to Jannik Sinner.
The prospect of Djokovic settling in Greece has fans buzzing, with some envisioning the taverna venture Tsitsipas jokingly proposed. “Wholesome to see two of the reasons why I became a tennis lover having a laugh together,” one fan posted on X, capturing the sentiment. As Djokovic prepares for Wimbledon, starting June 30, his off-court plans—blending family, philanthropy, and a nod to Greek culture—add a new chapter to his storied legacy, with a side of tzatziki-fueled humor.
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