Novak Djokovic has expressed his satisfaction with the outcome of Serbia’s parliamentary elections, praising the student movement that defeated Aleksandar Vučić’s ruling political camp.
Speaking ahead of his return to the Swiss Indoors Basel, the Serbian made clear that he was proud of the young people who had led protests for nearly two years and credited them with restoring hope and pride in his home country.
The movement emerged after 16 people were killed in the November 2024 collapse of a railway station canopy in Novi Sad. What began as a demand for accountability developed into a broader protest against corruption and the government, with students becoming the driving force behind demonstrations across Serbia.
Djokovic has publicly supported the students throughout the protests, making him one of the country's most prominent sporting figures to take a position on the issue. Asked about the election result in Basel, he not only welcomed the outcome but also addressed the expectations placed on him to speak out about political developments.
Djokovic praises Serbian students after election victory
Djokovic was asked whether he was satisfied with the election result and gave an unequivocal answer before paying tribute to the students who had sustained the movement despite the pressure they faced.
“Yes, I am satisfied. I'm very happy about it," the 24-time Grand Slam champion said. “My deepest respect to the students and young people who have fought and shown dignity and incredible resilience over the last two years, under humongous pressure.
"I have a lot of admiration for what they have done and how they have conducted themselves. They've managed to create this kind of sense of pride in all the people, not just in Serbia but abroad as well," he added. “The victory is secured. We all now have hope that our country will be prosperous and that we'll all enjoy the future that is coming.”
Novak Djokovic of Serbia poses with his champion trophy during the awarding ceremony for the men's singles final at the 2026 China Open
The Serbian also addressed the suggestion that he had been expected to make a more explicit statement before the election. Djokovic pointed out that he had already expressed his support for the students on several occasions, before explaining that his status in Serbian society sometimes left him feeling singled out.
“I've spoken out several times in the last two years. And my support has always been unequivocal for them, and I think most people who know me know what my stance is. I'd stop there because somehow...”
Djokovic smiled before continuing.
“I mean, I'm really grateful that I enjoy a special status in our society and I'm very honored to have had so much support from the people for so many years, but on the other hand, it feels like sometimes I'm the only one there... Like somehow I'm the only one expected to react.”
He then returned to the students' efforts, praising their perseverance and the determination required to continue protesting despite what he described as extraordinary pressure.
“But I wouldn't dwell on it too much. I mean, I would just mention that I am extremely proud of the young people, of the students, of their perseverance, of their struggle, of their faith that they have shown in the last two years. The pressures were abnormal, only they know how much effort, will and strength it took to achieve this goal.
"They broke the cult of personality, of one personality – and to collectivize the entire process, to awaken hope and pride in the people. I am almost 40 years old, but I don't remember there being this much excitement for voting, that so many people came out. I congratulate them and wish the entire people all the best in the future.”
Djokovic returns to Basel with ATP Finals qualification at stake
Djokovic's support for the protests has drawn criticism from parts of Serbia's pro-government media. In 2025, he also established a base in Athens with his family, while the ATP tournament associated with his family moved from Belgrade to Greece and became the Hellenic Championship.
Read also
His immediate focus is now the court. Djokovic begins his Swiss Indoors Basel campaign against France's Ugo Humbert on Wednesday, returning to the tournament for the first time since 2011. The fourth seed won the title in 2009 and reached the final in 2010.
The ATP 500 event is also an opportunity to strengthen his bid for the ATP Finals in Turin. Djokovic entered the Basel week outside the qualifying positions in the Race, leaving him with limited opportunities to collect the points needed to return to the season-ending tournament. The Paris Masters will follow Basel, making the next two weeks crucial to his chances of securing a place among the qualifiers.
Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist
Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.
His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.
In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.
claps 0visitors 0
Just In
Popular News
Latest Comments
- Boss move, Sinner !Rapunzel27-10-2026
- Apparently still refusing to seek 'help' ...and still playing Dress-Up like a 10 year-old.
mandoist27-10-2026 - Lena... Takin' care of businessmandoist25-10-2026
- Can you please stop publishing this nonsense? Stick to Tennis.mandoist25-10-2026
- Does Sinner need that 4.5 mil? I doubt it. He can make that with three modelling gigs!😅🤣Rapunzel21-10-2026
- Did "People Magazine" purchase this website? This nonstop storyline is bullshit.mandoist21-10-2026
- Listen... this is of no concern to anyone but these two. Deal with your own issues -- most of us have our own. Thanks, media, for these insignificant follow-ups which are meaningless.mandoist21-10-2026
- This is so very very sad, for all three of them. I truly thought they had an unbreakable bond, but life throws up so many differing challenges. Having your homeland suffering in such a terrible way, makes happiness lose out to guilt as well. Our thoughts are with them. X💔bjsexton20-10-2026
- I have lost all respect for Svitolina! Could she not have waited until he had played at the Paris Masters!!! She is selfish and don't give a damn about Gael. That is NOT how love is demonstrated Elina!!Rapunzel19-10-2026
- Perhaps convenient tennis tour sex is not a strong enough experience in which to base a marriage?mandoist19-10-2026
Loading