Novak Djokovic marked his first professional tennis appearance in Greece with a straight-sets victory over Alejandro Tabilo at the Hellenic Championship, an ATP 250 event. The 38-year-old Serbian star won 7-6, 6-1, advancing to the 225th ATP quarter-final of his career. The match was more than just another win for Djokovic—it was a deeply personal moment tied to his recent move to Athens with his family.
Why Djokovic chose Greece as his new home
Following the match, Djokovic addressed the crowd with an emotional speech, explaining the reasons behind his relocation and the connection he feels with Greece.
“It feels really at home, playing in Athens. A few months ago when I came here with my family, I was very excited because I have always loved Greece,” Djokovic said. “Serbians love Greece, for sure. Historically, culturally and religiously, we have a lot of things connecting us. It was amazing to experience the great hospitality of the Greek people.”
He went on to express how warmly he has been received since arriving, emphasizing the human connection he feels with the local community.
“More than the recognition for my tennis achievement, I feel people have approached me in the most friendly and humane way and that is something that has touched my heart. Athens is in my heart,” he added.
Honoring a mentor’s legacy
After the match, Djokovic participated in a tribute to his former mentor Nikola Pilic, who passed away in September at the age of 87. Pilic played a pivotal role in Djokovic’s development, having welcomed him into his tennis academy in Germany when Djokovic was just 10 years old.
Djokovic has previously spoken about Pilic’s influence, saying: “Nikola is my tennis father. A mentor. A man who selflessly shared his knowledge and experience about tennis and life with me. Niki’s lovely wife Mija and he welcomed me with open arms to their tennis academy in Germany and treated me like their own child.”
Looking ahead in the tournament
With his victory over Tabilo, Djokovic continues his pursuit of another ATP title, aiming to add to his already historic career tally. The move to Greece appears to have brought renewed energy and emotional clarity, as he competes with a sense of purpose and connection in his new surroundings.
ATP Athens - Novak Djokovic's projected path
Djokovic in Athens, ranking, and results in 2025
Now ranked no.5, Novak owns a 36-11 record in 2025. Djokovic is now playing in Athens where he ousted the world no.89 Alejandro Tabilo 7-6(3) 6-1.
Novak Djokovic will take on the world no.47 Nuno Borges in the quarter. They have never competed against each other until now in top competitions.
Djokovic has won 1 title in 2025 in Geneva. Djokovic got to the final in Miami (Miami Open).
The Serbian won 100 titles in his career: 52 on hard courts, 21 on clay courts, 19 on indoor courts and 8 on grass courts. (See the list of his titles)