Novak Djokovic received a frosty welcome from fans in Greece this week after being booed at a basketball game in Athens — just months after moving his family to the country.
The 38-year-old tennis legend, widely regarded as one of the greatest players of all time, has long been known for his love of basketball.
But his latest courtside appearance didn’t go to plan when he attended a EuroLeague clash between Panathinaikos and Maccabi Tel Aviv, only to be jeered by sections of the crowd.
Djokovic, a proud Serb born in Belgrade, surprised many over the summer when he relocated his family to Greece, setting up a new base in the capital.
His move was seen as a fresh chapter for the 24-time Grand Slam champion, but his presence at Tuesday’s game proved divisive among local fans.
The atmosphere inside the OAKA Olympic Indoor Hall turned sour when cameras picked up Djokovic and his nine-year-old son, Stefan, sitting courtside.
As the pair appeared on the big screen, boos echoed around the 18,500-capacity arena — a reaction loud enough to be picked up clearly on television broadcasts.
Novak Djokovic received a frosty welcome from fans in Greece this week after being booed at a basketball game in Athens — just months after moving his family to the country
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The cause of the hostility appears to stem from Djokovic’s well-documented allegiance to Serbian basketball clubs Red Star Belgrade and Partizan, both of which share fierce rivalries with Greek sides in the EuroLeague.
Panathinaikos currently sit just one place below Red Star in the standings, and that connection may have played a role in the jeers directed toward him.
Despite the reaction, Djokovic appeared unfazed. He continued scrolling through his phone as the crowd voiced its displeasure, while his son Stefan, undeterred by the boos, grinned and flashed a peace sign when he saw himself on the Jumbotron.
Novak Djokovic has won more Grand Slam titles than any other player
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The hostility did not last long, however.
Less than 24 hours later, Djokovic attended another EuroLeague match — this time between Olympiacos and Monaco at the Peace and Friendship Stadium — and was greeted with cheers rather than boos. Fans applauded his presence as he watched the Greek champions fall 85–77 to their French opponents.
Panathinaikos went on to defeat Maccabi 99–85 later that evening, keeping pressure on Djokovic’s favourite side, Red Star, in the league standings.
Serbian team Partizan are scheduled to face Olympiacos next week, but the tennis great is unlikely to attend, with the ATP Finals in Turin beginning just two days later.
Djokovic recently confirmed his qualification for the year-ending tournament, which features the top eight players in the world.
Novak Djokovic is set to play at the ATP Finals
| REUTERSDespite battling through injuries and inconsistent form this season, he will once again be among the favourites, facing a formidable field including Carlos Alcaraz, Jannik Sinner, Alexander Zverev, and Taylor Fritz.
Speculation continues to swirl around Djokovic’s future with retirement rumours growing louder after a challenging year marked by fitness struggles and increasing family commitments.
He failed to win another major, with Alcaraz and Sinner dominating tennis’ biggest events.
For now, however, his focus remains on adding yet another title to his storied career.