On June 18, 2025, reports from Greek media outlets like Proto Thema and Neos Kosmos revealed that Novak Djokovic, the 24-time Grand Slam champion, plans to relocate permanently to Athens, Greece, with his family in September 2025, following the US Open. The decision, driven by cultural affinity, family priorities, and practical considerations, has sparked widespread discussion, though Serbian sources have questioned its validity. Here’s a detailed look at the reasons behind the reported move.
Cultural and Spiritual Connection
Djokovic, 38, has long expressed admiration for Greece, rooted in shared Orthodox Christian values and cultural ties between Serbia and Greece. He has called Greeks “Orthodox brothers,” a sentiment voiced during his 2009 Australian Open match against Marcos Baghdatis, and has embraced Greek culture through actions like dancing to Zorba music on TikTok and visiting the Parthenon, per Neos Kosmos. His spiritual ties, including visits to Mount Athos, make Athens an appealing destination for a culturally resonant lifestyle, per Proto Thema.
Family-Oriented Future
As Djokovic nears the twilight of his tennis career, he prioritizes quality time with his wife, Jelena, and children, Stefan and Tara. Athens offers a warm climate, top-tier international schools, and daily flights to Belgrade, making it a practical and family-friendly base compared to his current homes in Monaco, Marbella, and New York, per Greek City Times. Reports indicate the Djokovics are house-hunting in Athens’ northern suburbs and exploring English-speaking schools, signaling a long-term commitment, per Kathimerini.
Greece’s Golden Visa Program
A key facilitator is Greece’s Golden Visa program, which grants five-year residency to non-EU nationals investing €250,000 or more in real estate. Djokovic is reportedly enrolling, ensuring legal and logistical ease for his family’s transition, per Proto Thema. His June 13, 2025, meeting with Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis in Kolonaki, where the move was allegedly greenlit, underscores official support, per Neos Kosmos.
Strained Ties with Serbia
Tensions with the Serbian government have played a significant role. Djokovic’s support for student protests against the government after a November 2024 rail accident in Novi Sad, expressed in a December 2024 X post—“Serbia has enormous potential, and its educated youth is its greatest strength”—was censored by state media, fueling claims of a “media boycott,” per B92. This has reportedly led Djokovic to reconsider raising his children in Belgrade, despite owning property there, per Serbian Monitor.
Investment and Legacy
Djokovic is exploring investments in Greece, including a potential tennis academy at the Olympic Athletic Center (OAKA) to develop Balkan talent, per Greek Reporter. This follows his 2023 decision to return his Belgrade tennis center to the city, suggesting a strategic pivot. His Novak Djokovic Foundation, focused on education, may also forge new partnerships in Greece, per Ethnos.
Skepticism from Serbia
Serbian media, cited by X user @alexxandra1011, have refuted the relocation claims, asserting Djokovic’s recent Greece visit was for foundation work, not a permanent move, per. This casts doubt on the narrative, though Greek reports remain consistent.
Conclusion
Djokovic’s reported move to Athens blends a deep cultural connection, family-centric goals, and strategic residency benefits, amplified by political friction in Serbia. While his affinity for Greece and investment plans support the decision, Serbian denials suggest the move may not be finalized. As Djokovic prepares for Wimbledon 2025 (June 30–July 13), the tennis world awaits clarity on his next chapter.
