At 37 years old, Novak Djokovic remains a formidable force in the world of tennis, steadfastly pursuing his quest for an unprecedented 11th Australian Open title in Melbourne. As he prepares to face Jiri Lehecka in the upcoming fourth round, Djokovic is also eyeing his 24th Grand Slam men’s singles title, further cementing his legacy in the sport. Beyond the court, Djokovic’s personal life, particularly his relationship with his wife Jelena, plays a pivotal role in his enduring career and resilience.
A Champion’s Journey
Novak Djokovic, often hailed as one of the greatest tennis players of all time, has weathered numerous highs and lows throughout his illustrious career. Born on May 22, 1987, in Belgrade, Serbia, Djokovic turned professional in 2003 and swiftly rose through the ranks to join the esteemed “Big Three” alongside Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal. As of 2025, Djokovic stands as the last active member of this legendary trio, with Nadal having retired last year and Andy Murray following suit after the Paris Olympics 2024.
Djokovic’s journey has been marked by extraordinary achievements, including multiple Grand Slam titles, Olympic gold, and a career Grand Slam. His relentless pursuit of excellence and ability to overcome adversity have inspired millions of fans worldwide. Despite a challenging 2024 season where he did not secure any Grand Slam victories and slipped to No. 7 in the rankings, Djokovic’s determination remains unshaken, thanks in large part to the unwavering support of his family.
The Pillar of Support: Jelena Djokovic
Behind every great athlete is a support system, and for Novak Djokovic, Jelena Djokovic has been that cornerstone. Jelena, a former model and now a successful entrepreneur, has been instrumental in balancing Novak’s demanding career with their family life. Together, they have two children, Stefan and Tara, who often accompany Novak on his tours, adding a layer of warmth and stability to his life on the road.
In a revealing interview with In Depth magazine, Jelena shared a poignant moment from seven years ago when Novak nearly hung up his racket for good. After a surprising first-round loss to Benoit Paire at the 2018 Miami Open, Djokovic felt overwhelmed and contemplated retirement. “He just gathered all of us and said, ‘you know guys, I’m done,’” Jelena recounted. The family was distraught, not wanting to see their beloved champion step away from the sport they all love.
However, Jelena’s unwavering belief in Novak’s potential and their shared love for tennis proved to be the turning point. A family holiday provided the perfect backdrop for Novak to reconnect with his passion. Watching Jelena and their son Stefan play on the court rekindled his love for the game. “He showed up on the third or fourth day of the holiday, saw us having fun, and asked for a racquet. That moment reignited his drive to compete,” Jelena explained. With the encouragement of their coach Marian Vajda, Novak made the pivotal decision to return to the sport, leading to his continued success.
Balancing Family and Professional Life
Balancing a high-profile career with family responsibilities is no small feat, yet Novak and Jelena have managed to maintain a harmonious relationship. Jelena’s role extends beyond being a supportive spouse; she is actively involved in their philanthropic endeavors and Novak’s business ventures. Their partnership exemplifies mutual respect and shared goals, providing a strong foundation for both personal and professional growth.
Their son Stefan, who has shown interest in tennis, often trains alongside Novak, hinting at a potential future in the sport. This dynamic family environment not only fosters Novak’s performance but also ensures that their children grow up with a balanced perspective on fame and success.
Overcoming Recent Challenges
The 2024 season posed significant challenges for Djokovic. Failing to secure any Grand Slam titles and experiencing a drop in rankings to No. 7 were setbacks that tested his resilience. However, Djokovic’s ability to bounce back is a testament to his mental and physical fortitude. The highlight of his year was winning the gold medal at the Paris Olympics, a triumph that added to his illustrious career and provided a much-needed boost of confidence.
Off the court, Djokovic has been vocal about issues within the tennis community, particularly criticizing the handling of doping cases involving rising stars like Jannik Sinner and Iga Swiatek. His outspoken nature reflects his commitment to maintaining the integrity of the sport, even when it involves challenging powerful figures and institutions.
Financial and Philanthropic Endeavors
With a net worth estimated at around $220 million, Djokovic has successfully leveraged his tennis earnings into various business ventures and investments. Beyond his financial accomplishments, Djokovic is dedicated to philanthropy. The Novak Djokovic Foundation focuses on early childhood education and development in Serbia, aiming to provide opportunities for underprivileged children. Jelena plays a crucial role in these initiatives, ensuring that their philanthropic efforts are impactful and far-reaching.
Their commitment to giving back extends to supporting various social causes, demonstrating that their success is not solely measured by trophies and titles but also by their contributions to society.
As Djokovic continues his pursuit of additional Grand Slam titles, his relationship with Jelena remains a vital source of strength and inspiration. Their ability to navigate the pressures of professional sports while maintaining a loving and supportive family environment sets them apart in the world of athletics. With Jelena by his side, Novak Djokovic is poised to continue his remarkable career, aiming to break records and inspire future generations of tennis players.
In the ever-evolving landscape of tennis, Djokovic’s story is one of perseverance, love, and unwavering dedication. As he chases his latest milestones, the partnership between Novak and Jelena Djokovic serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of family and support in achieving greatness.