WATCH: Novak Djokovic delivers tearful tribute to late mentor
NewsThursday, 06 November 2025 at 21:25
Novak Djokovic could not hold back tears as he spoke during a tribute to Nikola Pilic, one of the most influential people in his life.
Pilic was the 1973 French Open champion during his career, but he became even better known for his activities after he retired. That included running the highly successful Pilic Academy near Munich.
Djokovic was one of the players who worked with Pilic at his academy. He remained in contact with the 24-time Grand Slam champion in subsequent years, and he became something of a second father to him.
On September 22nd, 2025, Pilic passed away in Croatia. Djokovic released an emotional statement about his mentor, crediting him as one of the most important people he has met and saluting his life accomplishments.
A tribute was held for Pilic at the ongoing 2025 Athens Open, where Djokovic is competing. His family owns the tournament's license, which was moved to Athens for this year after previously being in Belgrade.
In the video, Djokovic is in tears as he tries to speak about the man who meant so much to him. Eventually, he remained composed enough to say some words about him before a video was played.
"I'm sorry for this, but Niki was more than just a coach and mentor 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 passed away a few months ago, and I want to ask for your support and patience to give him the respect and tribute that he deserves, the legend that he is."
When the video of Pilic finished playing, Djokovic mentioned his incredible achievement of winning the Davis Cup five times as a captain. That included the 2010 title with Djokovic in the team.
"He's the biggest Davis Cup coach in history, and what he did will never be repeated. He has won Davis Cup five times with three different countries Germany, Serbia, and Croatia. This is something that will never be repeated. He is an absolute legend of the game."
It was nice that Djokovic got a unique opportunity to celebrate someone who meant so much to him. The former ATP world No. 1 does not hide that he would never have become the most statistically successful player ever without Pilic.
Djokovic moved into the semifinals in Athens
Later on Thursday, Djokovic defeated Nuno Borges in their Athens Open quarterfinal. The tennis legend was not at his best in either set, but found enough quality moments to reach the semifinals.
Djokovic remains on course for a final against Lorenzo Musetti, who will face Sebastian Korda in the semifinal. This year's Chengdu Open runner-up must win in Athens to ensure qualification for the 2025 ATP Finals.
However, Musetti will qualify if Djokovic elects not to play at the year-end championships. The seven-time ATP Finals winner will make that decision after the Athens Open, contradicting comments from the Italian Tennis Federation Chief.
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