Novak Djokovic (Serbian: Новак Ђоковић / Novak Đoković; born 22 May 1987) is a Serbian professional tennis player widely regarded as one of the greatest players in the history of the sport. Djokovic has held the world No. 1 ranking for a record 428 weeks across 13 different years and has finished as year-end No. 1 a record eight times.
He has won 100 ATP singles titles, including a record 24 Grand Slam singles titles, 40 ATP Masters 1000 titles, and seven year-end championships. Djokovic is the only player in men’s tennis history to hold all four majors simultaneously on three surfaces, complete the Career Golden Masters twice, and win every “Big Title” (Grand Slams, ATP Finals, Masters, and Olympics).
Early Life and Background
Djokovic was born in Belgrade, Yugoslavia (now Serbia) to Dijana and Srđan Djokovic. His father is Serbian and his mother is of Croatian descent. He began playing tennis at age four and trained under Jelena Genčić, who recognized his potential early. During the 1990s Yugoslav Wars, he often practiced in challenging conditions, including bomb shelters and improvised courts.
At age 12, Djokovic moved to the Nikola Pilić Academy in Germany, where he trained for four years. His early exposure to high-level coaching and international competition prepared him for a professional career.
Professional Career
Breakthrough (2003–2010)
Djokovic turned professional in 2003. He won his first ATP title in 2006 and quickly established himself among the rising stars. His first Grand Slam title came at the 2008 Australian Open, ending Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal’s dominance. In 2010, Djokovic helped Serbia win its first Davis Cup.
Dominance and “Big Three” Era (2011–2016)
In 2011, Djokovic had one of the greatest seasons in tennis history: winning 10 titles, including three Grand Slams, and rising to world No. 1. He completed his first Career Grand Slam in 2016 by winning the French Open, becoming the first man since Rod Laver to hold all four majors at once.
Setbacks and Comeback (2017–2020)
An elbow injury in 2017 led to a slump, but Djokovic returned in 2018, winning Wimbledon and the US Open. In 2020, he led Serbia to victory in the inaugural ATP Cup and captured his 17th Grand Slam at the Australian Open.
Record-Breaking Years (2021–2024)
Djokovic won three Grand Slam titles in 2021, including his second French Open, completing a triple Career Grand Slam. In 2023, he captured his 24th major at the US Open, breaking the all-time record. At the 2024 Paris Olympics, Djokovic won the gold medal, completing the Career Golden Slam and Career Super Slam.
2025 Season
In 2025, Djokovic won his 100th career ATP singles title at the Geneva Open. Despite injuries and tough competition from younger rivals like Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner, he remains among the sport’s elite at age 38.
Rivalries
- Rafael Nadal – Djokovic leads their 60-match rivalry 31–29. They have contested numerous classics, including the 2012 Australian Open final, the longest in history.
- Roger Federer – Djokovic leads 27–23, with historic battles at Wimbledon, including the 2019 final.
- Andy Murray – Djokovic leads 25–11. The pair met in four Grand Slam finals.
- Stan Wawrinka – Despite Djokovic’s 21–6 lead, Wawrinka defeated him in two Slam finals.
Playing Style
Djokovic is renowned for his return of serve, two-handed backhand, and mental toughness under pressure. His movement, agility, and defensive skills are considered unmatched in tennis history.
Off the Court
Djokovic is the founder of the Novak Djokovic Foundation, which focuses on early childhood education in Serbia. He has also served as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador.
In business, Djokovic co-owns restaurants, nutrition brands, and recently became a co-owner of French football club Le Mans FC. He has endorsement deals with Lacoste, Asics, Head, and other global brands.
Legacy
Djokovic is considered by many analysts, former players, and rivals to be the greatest male tennis player of all time (GOAT). His combination of records, consistency across all surfaces, and longevity in the sport has cemented his place as one of the most influential athletes of the 21st century.
