Novak Djokovic Reportedly “Targeted” by Serbian Government — Tennis Icon Faces Growing Political Pressure Amid Speculation of Possible Move Abroad

For nearly two decades, Novak Djokovic has dominated the world of tennis with his extraordinary talent, fierce determination, and relentless pursuit of greatness. He is Serbia’s most famous sporting export, admired globally not only for his achievements on the court but also for his ability to remain a proud ambassador of his country. Yet now, according to reports emerging from Europe, the 24-time Grand Slam champion is facing one of the most challenging battles of his life — not against Rafael Nadal or Carlos Alcaraz, but against forces much closer to home.

In recent weeks, Djokovic has reportedly been the subject of a government-led smear campaign in Serbia, sparking concerns among his supporters that the national hero could be forced into making a life-changing decision: whether to remain in his homeland or seek temporary refuge abroad.

The claims, which first surfaced in Serbian and international outlets, suggest that the government of President Aleksandar Vučić has grown increasingly hostile toward the tennis star after he expressed support for student-led protests last year.

A Tragedy That Sparked a Movement

The controversy dates back to the aftermath of a national tragedy. In 2024, the collapse of a railway station canopy in central Serbia killed 16 people, a disaster that many citizens blamed on government negligence. The incident became a lightning rod for public anger, with students and activists organizing demonstrations calling for accountability.

While many public figures remained silent, Djokovic surprised his country — and the world — by openly supporting the protests. In a statement at the time, he said it was “important the voice of the youth was heard and listened to.” For young Serbians demanding change, Djokovic’s words felt like validation from their greatest national symbol. But for the government, the gesture was reportedly seen as a betrayal.

From National Hero to Political Target?

According to reports, the government’s response has been swift and calculated. State-linked media outlets allegedly began portraying Djokovic as “out of touch,” framing his comments as disruptive and even suggesting that he was undermining Serbia’s stability. For a man who had been celebrated as a unifying figure — the boy from Belgrade who conquered the world yet never forgot his roots — the shift in tone has been jarring.

Friends of Djokovic say he has been deeply unsettled by the backlash. While the star has not made any public remarks about the campaign against him, rumors have circulated in the Serbian press that he is considering spending more time abroad, possibly in Greece, where he has often vacationed with his family.

“Novak has always been proud of Serbia,” one anonymous source told a European sports outlet. “But when your own government turns you into a target, you start to wonder how long you can stay in that environment.”

The Greece Connection

Speculation about Djokovic moving to Greece is not new. The 37-year-old has long had ties to the country, from training camps in the Mediterranean climate to family holidays on its islands. Fans have pointed out that Athens or Crete would provide Djokovic not only geographical proximity to Serbia but also a calmer political atmosphere where he could focus on tennis and family life.

Still, any suggestion that he might “flee” his homeland has struck a painful chord for his supporters. Many Serbians see Djokovic as a national treasure — a man who proudly waved their flag on the grandest stages of Wimbledon, Roland Garros, and the US Open. The idea that he might feel compelled to leave due to political hostility is difficult for them to accept.

Djokovic’s Silence Speaks Volumes

Notably, Djokovic himself has remained silent on the issue. At tournaments this summer, including Wimbledon 2025, where he reached the latter stages before falling to rising star Jannik Sinner, he has carefully avoided political questions. Instead, he has focused on his tennis, his fitness, and his family.

But silence has not stopped the speculation. Fans and journalists alike have pointed to his body language — a wearier smile here, a curt nod there — as evidence of the strain he is under. On social media, supporters have flooded his accounts with messages of encouragement, urging him to “stay strong” and reminding him that he has overcome obstacles before.

A Career Built on Resilience

Indeed, Djokovic is no stranger to adversity. From growing up during the NATO bombings of Belgrade in the 1990s to navigating controversies about vaccines and tournaments during the COVID-19 pandemic, he has built his career on resilience. Time and again, when the world doubted him, Djokovic rose higher.

The question now is whether his latest battle — a political one — will test him in ways tennis never could. For an athlete who thrives on control, discipline, and focus, being drawn into a conflict with his own government could prove to be an exhausting distraction.

What Happens Next?

Much remains uncertain. Will Djokovic address the reports directly? Will the Serbian government ease its criticism, recognizing the backlash from ordinary citizens who revere him? Or will tensions escalate further, forcing the tennis star to make a public stand?

What is clear is that Djokovic’s every move will be scrutinized in the coming weeks, especially with the US Open approaching. Fans wonder: will he use the global stage of New York to send a message, or will he continue to let his racquet do the talking?

For now, his supporters are holding their breath. “Novak has always represented the best of Serbia,” one fan wrote online. “If he leaves, it won’t be because he wanted to — it will be because they pushed him away.”

A Legend at a Crossroads

Novak Djokovic has built a legacy that few athletes can match: 24 Grand Slam titles, hundreds of weeks as world No. 1, and an enduring reputation as one of the greatest to ever play the game. But as these new reports make clear, his legacy is about more than trophies. It’s about what he represents to his country, to his fans, and to the sport of tennis.

As Serbia grapples with political divisions and social unrest, Djokovic has become an unlikely symbol of resistance — and possibly, of sacrifice. Whether he remains in Belgrade or seeks refuge in Athens, one truth remains undeniable: the world will be watching, waiting to see how one of tennis’s greatest fighters handles the toughest opponent of all — the weight of politics.