Novak Djokovic recently opened up about his evolving fashion sense, revealing how his wife Jelena and close friends have encouraged him to step out of his comfort zone. The 24-time Grand Slam champion’s comments came after images of him donning a striking green tracksuit during a photoshoot in China went viral on social media.
Currently in Shanghai for the Rolex Shanghai Masters—a tournament he has won a record four times (2012, 2013, 2015, 2018)—Djokovic has been balancing preparations with an exploration of Chinese culture and fashion. Despite enduring a disappointing 2024 season in which he has yet to win an ATP Tour-level title, Djokovic appeared upbeat as he embraced a more adventurous wardrobe.
### Djokovic’s “Green Tracksuit Moment”
Djokovic’s recent photoshoot in China featured the Serb in a bold green Lacoste tracksuit as he toured various historic and cultural landmarks. The outfit and accompanying Instagram post, captioned “Chinese dreams in Lacoste greens,” quickly gained traction, amassing over half a million likes.
Speaking about the look in an interview with *Tennis TV*, Djokovic shared how his wife and friends have played a significant role in pushing him to broaden his fashion horizons.
“I’m receiving some help now from, of course, my wife and also some friends and people that are in fashion. I’m getting some advice and I’m starting to expand on what I can wear and what I wasn’t wearing for a long time,” Djokovic explained. “I started to like it a little bit more. I paid more attention to it. I wasn’t really caring as much for fashion in the past off the court.”
### A Nod to the 90s
Djokovic reflected on how memories from the 1990s inspired his new look, particularly the green tracksuit. The former World No. 1 explained how he drew inspiration from the music and fashion trends of that decade.
“It was more kind of conservative—jeans or chinos and polo—and that was kind of my vibe for a long time. But now I’m stepping out of the box a little bit,” Djokovic shared. “The green tracksuit, that was a good one. It brought back the 90s. I’m a kid of the 90s, and I remember those days—the music, how music artists were dressing up, and just like tucking those tracksuits in. Tracksuits were a big deal, and I just kind of felt like that.”
The green Lacoste tracksuit has become a symbolic representation of Djokovic’s willingness to experiment and embrace new facets of his identity beyond the tennis court.
### On-Court Focus: Rolex Shanghai Masters
While Djokovic’s fashion evolution has captivated fans, his primary focus remains on the Rolex Shanghai Masters, where he is set to kick off his campaign in the second round. The Serb, seeded No. 4 at the ATP Masters 1000 event, received a first-round bye and will face either Alex Michelsen or Bu Yunchaokete.
This matchup presents a unique challenge for Djokovic, as he has never played against either of the two young talents. Michelsen, a rising star from the United States, and Bu Yunchaokete, a 22-year-old Chinese prodigy, are both eager to prove themselves on the big stage.
Bu, in particular, could pose a significant threat. The Chinese player recently impressed at the China Open, where he reached the semifinals before falling to Jannik Sinner. If Bu manages to overcome Michelsen in the opening round, Djokovic could find himself facing a local favorite with growing momentum.
### Potential Path Forward
Should Djokovic prevail in his opening match, he could face a third-round encounter against either fellow veteran Stan Wawrinka or promising youngster Flavio Cobolli. While Djokovic has a long history of success against Wawrinka, the Swiss player’s experience and resilience make him a formidable opponent.
On the other hand, Cobolli represents the new generation of tennis talent, eager to challenge the sport’s established stars. Djokovic’s adaptability and strategic mindset will be critical as he navigates these potential matchups.
### A Challenging Season
The 2024 season has been an uncharacteristically difficult one for Djokovic, who has yet to claim an ATP title. This has raised questions about whether the 36-year-old can maintain his dominance in an increasingly competitive field. However, Djokovic’s positive attitude and willingness to evolve—both on and off the court—indicate that he remains focused on future successes.
The Rolex Shanghai Masters presents an opportunity for Djokovic to reclaim his winning form and solidify his legacy at one of his favorite tournaments. A strong showing in Shanghai could also serve as a springboard for the remainder of the season, boosting his confidence and momentum.
### Legacy Beyond Tennis
Djokovic’s exploration of fashion and cultural experiences reflects a broader trend among athletes who are redefining their roles beyond their respective sports. By embracing new challenges and interests, Djokovic is demonstrating that he is not only a tennis icon but also a multifaceted individual with a passion for personal growth.
His recent foray into fashion, guided by his wife Jelena and close friends, underscores the importance of stepping outside one’s comfort zone. Whether on the tennis court or in a green tracksuit, Djokovic continues to inspire fans with his dedication, curiosity, and willingness to adapt.
### Conclusion
Novak Djokovic’s journey through the 2024 season has been marked by both challenges and opportunities. While his on-court results have yet to meet his usual standards, his openness to change—whether through fashion or embracing new perspectives—shows a player and person committed to evolution.
As Djokovic prepares to face the competition at the Rolex Shanghai Masters, fans can look forward to witnessing not just his world-class tennis skills but also the charisma and individuality that have made him one of the most compelling figures in sports. Whether clad in a Lacoste tracksuit or battling it out on the court, Djokovic remains a force to be reckoned with.