In the midst of his pursuit of a record-extending 25th Grand Slam title at the 2025 French Open, Novak Djokovic found himself grappling with far more than on-court challenges. On Thursday, May 29, the tennis world was rocked by news of a serious medical emergency involving Miljan Amanovic, Djokovic’s long-time friend and physiotherapist. The Serbian star, who has been a dominant force in tennis for nearly two decades, revealed that Amanovic was hospitalized and underwent urgent surgery, casting a shadow over Djokovic’s campaign at Roland Garros. Despite the emotional weight, Djokovic displayed remarkable resilience, advancing to the third round with a hard-fought victory over France’s Corentin Moutet.
The incident unfolded as Djokovic was navigating a demanding second-round match against Moutet, ranked World No. 73. The 24-time Grand Slam champion had cruised through the first two sets 6-2, 6-2, but the third set brought its own challenges. Djokovic required a medical timeout to address painful blisters on his left foot, a recurring issue that echoed a similar setback during his 2019 US Open campaign. “I hope everything will be alright,” Djokovic said, his words carrying a dual meaning as he spoke not only of his own condition but also of his concern for Amanovic. The physio’s health crisis added an emotional layer to an already grueling match, which Djokovic ultimately clinched 7-6(1) in a tense tiebreak.
Amanovic, a trusted figure in Djokovic’s camp since 2007, has been a cornerstone of the Serbian’s success, helping him navigate the physical demands of a grueling ATP Tour schedule. Their bond, forged over 17 years, extends beyond the professional, with Amanovic also serving at Djokovic’s Novak Tennis Center in Belgrade. The physio’s health scare was particularly alarming given his history. In 2017, Amanovic suffered a heart attack, attributed to the relentless stress of full-time travel on the tour. “Unfortunately, Miljan is in the hospital. He had a serious situation today and underwent surgery. I wouldn’t want to go into more detail than that. We’re all very concerned,” Djokovic shared, his voice heavy with worry. He added, “He’s currently stable, but the situation isn’t ideal. He’ll have to stay in the hospital for a few days. We’re all worried.”
The surgery was a complication from a sinus procedure Amanovic had undergone weeks earlier, a detail that surfaced as updates trickled in. By Friday, there was cautious optimism, with reports indicating that Amanovic was stable but would remain under medical supervision. The news provided some relief to Djokovic’s camp, where Claudio Zimaglia, his current full-time physio, and Gebhard Phil Gritsch, his fitness trainer, were also supporting Amanovic during his recovery. The emotional toll was evident, yet Djokovic’s focus on the court remained unwavering, a testament to his mental fortitude.
Djokovic’s journey at Roland Garros this year has been marked by both triumph and adversity. Fresh off his 100th career singles title at the Geneva Open, the 37-year-old arrived in Paris with high expectations. His first-round win over Mackenzie McDonald (6-3, 6-3, 6-3) showcased his relentless precision, but the physical demands of clay-court tennis tested him further against Moutet. The blisters, while manageable, served as a reminder of the physical battles Djokovic has faced in recent years, from a 2023 hamstring tear to a 2024 meniscus injury that required surgery. “Injury is the biggest enemy of a professional athlete,” Djokovic once remarked, reflecting on his ability to overcome setbacks.
Off the court, the tennis community rallied around Amanovic, with fans and players alike expressing hope for his swift recovery. Djokovic’s history with his team, including a brief split with Amanovic and coach Marian Vajda in 2017, underscores the deep loyalty that defines his inner circle. Their reunion in 2018 marked a turning point, culminating in further Grand Slam successes. As Djokovic prepares for his third-round match, the specter of Amanovic’s health looms large, yet the Serbian remains determined. “I’ll keep striving to win more Slams,” he affirmed, his resolve unshaken.
With the French Open unfolding, Djokovic’s quest for a historic 25th major is intertwined with personal challenges that highlight his humanity. As he battles on the clay, his thoughts remain with Amanovic, a friend whose recovery is as critical to Djokovic as any trophy.
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