Novak Djokovic faces mixed reception at Greek basketball game
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, reports BritPanorama.
The 38-year-old tennis legend, widely regarded as one of the greatest players of all time, is a known basketball enthusiast. However, his latest courtside appearance did not go as planned 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, establishing a new base in the capital. Although this move was considered a fresh chapter for the 24-time Grand Slam champion, the atmosphere quickly soured when he and his nine-year-old son, Stefan, appeared on the big screen at the OAKA Olympic Indoor Hall.
Boos echoed throughout the 18,500-capacity arena as fans reacted to his presence, a reaction notable enough to be captured during television broadcasts. This hostility is believed to stem from Djokovic’s well-documented support for Serbian basketball club Red Star Belgrade, whose rivalry with Olympiacos, Panathinaikos’s arch rival, adds a layer of complexity to his local interactions.
Despite the crowd’s reaction, Djokovic appeared unfazed while scrolling through his phone, with his son flashing a peace sign in response to the boos. Less than 24 hours later, he attended another EuroLeague match — this time between Olympiacos and Monaco — where he was greeted with cheers. Fans applauded his presence, although Olympiacos lost 92-87 to their Monegasque opponents.
Looking ahead, Serbian team Partizan – rivals of Red Star – are set to face Olympiacos next week, though Djokovic is unlikely to attend, as the ATP Finals in Turin begin just two days later. Despite battling injuries and inconsistent form this season, he confirmed his qualification for the year-ending tournament, which features the top eight players in the world.
Speculation around Djokovic’s future abounds, with retirement rumors intensifying after a challenging year marked by injuries and family commitments. As he prepares for the ATP Finals, the veteran will remain focused on adding another title to his storied career, a testament to his enduring presence in the sport despite the challenges he faces.
In the world of sport, few figures capture the complexity of fandom quite like Djokovic. His journey continues to be a spotlight on how sport intertwines with national loyalties and personal narratives, leaving an indelible mark on both his supporters and detractors.
