3 times Novak Djokovic entrenched himself in political controversy: From Kosovo comments to latest update on Serbia student protests
Novak Djokovic is arguably the greatest men's tennis player of all time, with a record of 24 Grand Slam singles titles and over 420 weeks as the World No. 1. While a clinical and formidable presence on the tennis court, Djokovic does not shy away from expressing his political views on various subjects.
A proud Serbian, Djokovic is a revered figure in his country, and his latest comments amid the ongoing student protests in Serbia have sparked much discussion.
On that note, let us look at three occasions when the Serb found himself in controversy due to his comments on political matters.
#3. Djokovic sent out a message on the Kosovo situation last year
After defeating Martin Fucsovics in the second round of the French Open last year, Djokovic wrote a message on the camera lens:
"Kosovo is the heart of Serbia: Stop the violence"
The Serb was referring to the clashes between Serbian protesters and the NATO peacekeepers in Kosovo which led to several people being injured. Incidentally, Kosovo was an autonomous province in Serbia. However, it declared itself an independent country in 2008, which the ethnic Serbians reportedly refused to accept.
Through his comment, Djokovic seemingly reiterated that Kosovo was an integral part of Serbia. Djokovic's father Srjdan was born in Kosovo, which was all the more reason for him to comment on the issue.
"As a son of a man born in Kosovo, I feel the need to give my support to our people and to entire Serbia," Djokovic said after the match.
However, French sports minister Amélie Oudéa-Castéra told France 2 that sportspersons should be taking a neutral stance on sensitive political issues, saying (as quoted by Politico):
"It’s a very militant message, very political, We really shouldn’t go down that road, especially given the circumstance"
#2. Novak Djokovic opened up on his stance about COVID vaccination:
Djokovic was among the few athletes in the world to refuse to take the COVID jab (NFL star Aaron Rogers was among the others). The Serb did not get vaccinated and was subsequently denied a Visa in Australia and thus, could not take part in the 2022 Australian Open.
Clarifying his stance on the subject of vaccination, Novak said (via BBC):
"I was never against vaccination, but I've always supported the freedom to choose what you put in your body."
Despite missing a few tournaments in the United States due to not being vaccinated and facing criticism, the 24-time Grand Slam winner refused to change his stance on the subject.
#1. Djokovic lending his support to student protests in Serbia:
On Thursday, December 19, Djokovic extended his support to the student protests in Serbia. The protests come after a collapse of a canopy in a railway station in the city of Novi Sad killed 15 people on November 1, 2024. Ever since, several citizens, including students, have reportedly been demanding the removal of the country's current Government.
Djokovic gave his take on the matter and wrote:
"As someone who deeply believes in the strength of young people and their desire for a better future, I believe it is important that their voice be heard. Serbia has enormous potential, and educated youth is its greatest strength. What we all need is understanding and respect. With you, Novak." (Translated from Serbian).
Last month, Djokovic offered condolences to those affected by the train station collapse in Novi Sad.