Earlier this year, Novak Djokovic made headlines when he decided to withdraw from the Miami Open, citing a desire to focus more on his personal life. The 24-time Grand Slam champion emphasized the need to maintain a careful balance between his “private and professional schedule,” underscoring his commitment to family alongside his tennis career. Recently, Jelena Djokovic, his wife of nearly two decades, offered more insight into the family dynamics that are enabling Djokovic to continue competing at the highest level. In a candid interview, Jelena revealed how their family of four is providing the support system that allows Novak to excel and even prolong his career.
### **Jelena’s Role: Balancing Family and Humanitarian Work**
Jelena Djokovic is more than just a supportive spouse; she’s also a dedicated mother to their two children—Stefan, 10, and Tara, 7. In addition to her family commitments, Jelena is a passionate humanitarian who leads efforts to improve the lives of disadvantaged children in Serbia through the Novak Djokovic Foundation. Despite her busy schedule, she makes time to attend some of Novak’s most significant matches, cheering him on from the stands. One of the most memorable moments this year was at the Paris Olympics, where Jelena’s presence in the crowd highlighted her ongoing support despite her reduced travel schedule.
In an interview with *La Nacion*, a Spanish publication, Jelena discussed how her responsibilities have shifted over the years. When asked if her foundation work and child-rearing have affected her ability to travel with Novak, she explained that she’s had to cut back on attending tournaments. “Yes, I’m traveling less now. I’m traveling less because of the kids. There are so many tournaments, and yet his career is still going on,” she said. “He’s now choosing the right places to go. It’s not my business. He’ll do what he wants for as long as he wants. I support him. And the kids love what he does and are very proud of him. In fact, if we can help him stay longer, we will.”
### **Novak’s Selective Schedule: Prioritizing Family and Big Goals**
Novak Djokovic’s decision to limit his tournament participation is part of a deliberate strategy to find a sustainable balance between his professional ambitions and personal life. In an interview with the ATP before his return at the 2024 Shanghai Masters, Djokovic gave more context about how he is planning his 2025 schedule. His primary focus, he explained, would continue to be on Grand Slams and representing his country.
“I have to repeat the same thing as said, so my main focus is the slams and playing for my country. That’s what drives me most,” Djokovic stated. He clarified that while he won’t skip all the Masters events, he will be selective, choosing tournaments that fit into his overall life goals. “Probably not all of them, but I’ll work on my schedule for next season, and then I’ll see where it kind of fits my professional and private life schedule. I’ll pick and choose where I want to play.”
For Djokovic, this selective approach is not just about maintaining peak physical condition but also ensuring he can remain actively involved in his children’s lives as they grow up.
### **The Djokovic Family: A Source of Joy and Inspiration**
Stefan and Tara, the couple’s two children, are becoming more involved in their father’s world of tennis as they get older. The kids have often been seen in the player’s box, experiencing the high-energy environment of major tennis events. This year, they witnessed a particularly historic moment as their father clinched an Olympic gold medal, adding another illustrious title to his career. Yet, according to Jelena, their understanding of Novak’s impact on the sport is still developing.
“They see it when they travel and encounter many fans; they notice the attention he receives,” Jelena said, adding that her children sometimes boast playfully about their father’s fame. “Sometimes I hear them saying, ‘My daddy is famous.’ It’s a kind of childish boasting, but they are also learning its deeper meaning through the foundation’s work. This is what Novak aims for too, to change the world for children.”
### **A Musical Family Tradition: How Music Connects the Djokovic Clan**
Beyond tennis, music plays a special role in the Djokovic household. Novak has shared numerous stories about how music has become a cherished family activity, helping them bond despite the demands of his career. Earlier this year, Djokovic’s Wimbledon victory was followed by a lighthearted and memorable celebration where he mimicked playing the violin—a nod to his daughter Tara, who is learning the instrument.
In a revealing interview, Djokovic talked about his family’s musical inclinations. “Tara plays the violin, Stefan loves to play the guitar, and I play the saxophone,” he said. “Sometimes our jams last for hours, and it’s my favorite part of the day or trip.” These musical moments are not only a source of joy for Djokovic but also a way to unwind and reconnect with his family during his rigorous travel and training schedule. He even joked that his success at the US Open, where he secured his 24th Grand Slam title, might have been influenced by his “little band.”
### **The Power of Partnership: How Jelena and Novak Complement Each Other**
The dynamic between Jelena and Novak Djokovic is a testament to a strong partnership built on mutual respect and shared goals. While Novak dominates the tennis courts, Jelena manages the household and oversees the family’s philanthropic endeavors, ensuring a sense of normalcy and stability for their children. Jelena’s willingness to travel less, allowing Novak to focus on carefully selected tournaments, has been crucial in extending his career. It’s a delicate balance, but one that seems to be working well for the Djokovic family.
Their nearly two-decade-long marriage has weathered the challenges of a global tennis career, demanding travel schedules, and the intense scrutiny that comes with being in the public eye. Throughout it all, they have maintained a commitment to family life, making choices that prioritize their children’s well-being while still allowing Novak to pursue his career goals.
### **Looking Ahead: Djokovic’s Legacy and Future Aspirations**
As Novak Djokovic continues to defy age and push the boundaries of what is possible in professional tennis, his family remains his anchor. The Serbian legend, who has already cemented his place in tennis history, is not content to rest on his laurels. Instead, he’s adapting his career strategy to ensure longevity and continuing to aim for new milestones. With Stefan and Tara growing up and beginning to understand more about their father’s incredible achievements, Djokovic is likely motivated more than ever to keep competing.
In his quest to maintain his elite status in the sport, Djokovic’s focus will be squarely on the Grand Slams and national representation. This selective approach, combined with the unwavering support of his family, is likely to keep him at the forefront of the tennis world for years to come.
### **Conclusion: The Djokovic Family’s Unbreakable Bond**
Novak and Jelena Djokovic’s story is not just one of tennis triumphs, but of family unity and balance. Jelena’s recent comments underscore the strength of their partnership, as they navigate the complexities of raising a family while maintaining a high-profile tennis career. The couple’s ability to adapt to the evolving demands of professional sports, while staying grounded in their values and commitments, is a blueprint for any athlete seeking to balance personal and professional ambitions.
As Novak continues to pursue excellence on the court, backed by his family’s love and support, it’s clear that the Djokovic legacy is about more than just Grand Slam titles. It’s about the strength of family, the joy of shared passions, and the power of a solid foundation that allows a champion to thrive, both on and off the court. The story of Novak Djokovic, his family, and their journey together is far from over—and tennis fans around the world are eager to see what the next chapter will bring.