Novak Djokovic was visibly emotional after his second-round victory at the Hellenic Championship in Athens, as tournament organisers paid homage to his late coach, Nikola Pilic. The tribute came following Djokovic’s win over Alejandro Tabilo, with a scoreline of 7-6(3) 6-1.
Pilic, who passed away in September at the age of 86, was a significant figure in Djokovic’s early career. The Croatian was not only a talented player, being a runner-up at the French Open in 1973, but he also made a notable mark in coaching, leading Germany to three Davis Cup titles between 1988 and 1993.
As the tribute video played, Djokovic, now 38 and the holder of 24 Grand Slam titles, reflected on the profound impact Pilic had on his life. He joined Pilic’s academy in Germany at the age of 12, and the bond they formed was akin to that of father and son.
“It was an emotional moment,” Djokovic expressed on the ATP website. “Considering what he meant to me and my family – privately, also professionally – he was my tennis father as I like to call him, someone who has played a fundamental, integral role in my development as a tennis player and as a human being.”
Djokovic’s words underscored the depth of his feelings, as he recalled the sadness that enveloped him upon hearing of Pilic’s passing. His tribute was not just a reflection of personal loss, but also an acknowledgment of the legacy that Pilic left within the world of tennis.
“As long as I play tennis and as long as I live, I’ll celebrate his name,” Djokovic declared, highlighting his commitment to honouring Pilic’s memory through his continued success in the sport. He expressed confidence that future generations would come to understand the significant impact Pilic had on tennis.
“This was one of the moments of how to pay tribute and I’m sure in future people will learn about how Niki has impacted the world of tennis and the world of sport,” he added. “He deserves it. He was a special man.”
