Novak Djokovic, Boris Becker, and Ivan Ljubicic gathered in Bologna, the host city of the Davis Cup, to pay tribute to Croatian tennis figure Nikola “Niki” Pilic, who passed away in September at the age of 86. The ceremony was held just before the Davis Cup quarterfinal tie between Italy and Austria, highlighting Pilic’s enduring influence on the sport.
Djokovic’s emotional words
Djokovic, who regarded Pilic as a guiding figure in his career, emphasized the depth of their relationship. “He was more than a coach to me. He was part of my family. I would not be who I am today without him,” Djokovic said following Pilic’s death.
Pilic’s legacy in the Davis Cup
The Davis Cup was one of Pilic’s favorite competitions. He won the trophy five times with three different nations: Germany in 1988, 1989, and 1993, Croatia in 2005, and Serbia in 2010. His success across multiple countries underscored his unique ability to inspire and lead teams on the international stage.
A career of influence
Beyond his coaching achievements, Pilic guided players such as Boris Becker, Goran Ivanisevic, and Michael Stich. His impact extended across generations, shaping champions and leaving a lasting mark on tennis.
Pilic as a player
As a competitor, Pilic reached the Roland Garros final in 1973. His career was also defined by controversy when he was suspended for nine months by the Yugoslav Tennis Federation after refusing to play a Davis Cup tie against New Zealand in Zagreb.
The suspension and its consequences
The International Tennis Federation upheld the suspension but reduced it to one month, preventing Pilic from competing at the Italian and German Opens and during the opening week of Wimbledon. This incident became a turning point in tennis history.
The birth of the ATP
The suspension ultimately led to the creation of the Association of Tennis Professionals. In 1990, the ATP joined forces with tournament directors to form the modern ATP Tour, reshaping the structure of professional tennis and ensuring players had a stronger voice in the sport.
Remembering Pilic
Nikola Pilic’s legacy lives on through the players he mentored and the institutions shaped by his career. His influence on Djokovic and many others highlights the enduring role he played in the evolution of tennis.
Novak Djokovic in 2025
Currently the world no.4, the Serbian played his last match on the 8th of November when he overcame world no.8 Lorenzo Musetti 4-6 6-3 7-5 in the final in Athens to win his 101st career title.
This season Novak has an overall 39-11 record. The Serbian has won 2 titles in 2025 in Geneva and Athens. The Serbian was the runner-up in Miami.
Djokovic will play next in Brisbane (Brisbane International). He will start the tournament from the main draw that will commence on the 29th of December.
