Tennis star Novak Djokovic became visibly emotional and cried while watching a tribute video for his late former mentor, Nikola Pilic, calling the tennis legend “more than just a coach” and “a part of my family.”
November 6, 2025: World-renowned tennis player Novak Djokovic was overcome with emotion at the Hellenic Championship in Greece as a video tribute was played for his former mentor, Nikola Pilic, who passed away in September this year at the age of 86.
Djokovic, who began training with Pilic at his academy in Munich when he was just 10 years old, struggled to hold back tears during the ceremony and the subsequent post-match interview.
Pilic: ‘My Tennis Father’
The Serbian star spoke highly of the immense influence Pilic had on both his professional and personal life.
Novak Djokovic: “Sorry. Sorry for this but he was more than just a mentor and a coach to me. He was a part of my family to me and my brothers. He has helped so much and I definitely wouldn’t be who I am today without him.”
He later reflected on the moment with the ATP Tour website, calling the tribute an emotional necessity: “It was an emotional moment… he was my tennis father as I like to call him – someone that has played a fundamental, integral role in my development as a tennis player and as a human being.”
Djokovic vowed to celebrate Pilic’s legacy for the rest of his life, adding: “As long as I play tennis and as long as I live, I will celebrate his name… He deserves it. He was a very special man.”
A Legacy in Tennis
Nikola Pilic, a Croatian former player, had a significant career before becoming a globally respected coach and mentor:
- Grand Slams: He reached the French Open final in 1972 and won the US Open doubles title eight years later (1970). He was also a Wimbledon doubles finalist in 1962.
- Mentorship: Pilic took the young Djokovic under his wing, providing crucial guidance that helped shape the future world No. 1 and 24-time Grand Slam champion.
Djokovic concluded his emotional address by requesting the audience’s respect: “He passed away a few months ago and I want to ask your support to give him respect and the tribute that he deserves, the legend that he is.”