Novak Djokovic has been known to carry his Serbian teammates on his back now and again – the Serb lead the team to the Davis Cup title in 2010 and the ATP Cup title in 2020, and he’s one of the most important athletes to ever come from Serbia. In short, an inspiration for all.
The tradition continues this winter, as the World No.1 is shelling out money and resources to help his compatriots make their preparations for the 2021 Australian Open in Belgrade.
Petar Popovic, coach of Damir Dzhumhur took to Instagram today to call attention to Djokovic’s generosity as a group of players arrive for their off-season training at Novak Tennis Centre in Belgrade.
“Special thanks to Novak what he did this winter for all Serbian players to provide them free courts, balls, food, hotel, stringing...etc. Just wow hat down, @DjokerNole.”
"In winter, the courts are very expensive with us, especially for a 700th, 800th or 1000th player in the world," Popovic told L’équipe. ““Novak has done an incredible thing for our country. It is an exceptional help.”
Dzumhur and Popovic are joined by Filip Krajinovic, Laslo Djere, Danilo Petrovic (141st), Viktor Troicki (201st), Marko Tepavac (449th), Boris Butulija (1325th), Hamad Medjedovic (1348th). And more should soon arrive.
Besides the facilities, there are also stringing services, physiotherapists, hotel accomodations and more.
“I don't see other players who have done this for their country's tennis,” Popovic said. “He doesn't brag about it. He has shown that he is really tall and that he thinks of others.”