Novak Djokovic is more than just a tennis player—he is a living legend. Ranked No. 6 in the world as of May 2025, Djokovic has won 99 ATP titles, including his latest victory in 2024, and holds a record-breaking 24 Grand Slam titles—the most in men’s tennis history. His dominance on the court, combined with his resilience off it, has cemented him as one of the greatest athletes of all time.
In this comprehensive biography, we explore Djokovic’s life, career, achievements, personal life, business ventures, and legacy.
Early Life: A Tennis Prodigy from Belgrade
Novak Djokovic was born on May 22, 1987, in Belgrade, Serbia. From a very young age, his passion for tennis was evident. At just four years old, Djokovic picked up a mini-racket and a foam ball, marking the beginning of a journey that would change the face of men’s tennis.
By the age of six, he attended tennis camps in Novi Sad and later at Mount Kopaonik, showing remarkable talent for his age. Recognizing his potential, his first coach, Jelena Genčić, advised his family to seek higher-level training abroad. This led Djokovic, at age 12, to the Nikola Pilić Tennis Academy in Germany, where he honed his skills for four years.
By 14, Djokovic was competing internationally, winning titles across singles, doubles, and team events in Europe. His early exposure to global competition laid the foundation for a career filled with record-breaking success.
The Rise of a Champion
Djokovic’s first major breakthrough came in 2008 when he won the Australian Open at just 20 years old, ending the dominance of Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer. This victory marked the beginning of his journey as a dominant force in men’s tennis.
Alongside Federer and Nadal, Djokovic became part of the legendary “Big Three,” redefining an era of tennis. He reached the world No. 1 ranking for the first time in 2011, signaling his arrival at the pinnacle of the sport.
Career Highlights
- 24 Grand Slam titles, the most in men’s tennis
- 10 Australian Open titles
- 7 Wimbledon titles
- Only player to win each Grand Slam at least three times
- Olympic Gold Medalist (2024 Paris Olympics)
- World No. 1 for a record 428 weeks
- 99 ATP titles
- All-time leader in prize money: over $186 million
Record-Breaking 2024 and 2025
In 2024, Djokovic achieved remarkable milestones:
- Gold medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics, defeating Carlos Alcaraz in straight sets, becoming the oldest men’s singles Olympic champion.
- Achieved Career Super Slam and Career Golden Masters, cementing his status among the sport’s greatest.
- Surpassed Roger Federer’s record for the most Grand Slam match wins, reaching 370 victories.
In 2025, Djokovic reached the Miami Open final but lost to Jakub Mensik. He continues to challenge the younger generation while maintaining his place among tennis elites.
Personal Life: Family and Foundation
Djokovic’s life off the court is as impressive as his professional achievements. He married Jelena Djokovic in 2014 after nearly a decade of dating. The couple has two children: Stefan (2014) and Tara (2017). Jelena actively runs the Novak Djokovic Foundation, which provides education opportunities to disadvantaged children in Serbia.
Family Background
- Father: Srdjan Djokovic, former skier and sports entrepreneur
- Mother: Dijana Djokovic, co-owner of a restaurant and sports shop, known as the family’s pillar
- Siblings: Marko and Djordje Djokovic, former professional tennis players
Despite his global fame, Djokovic remains closely connected to his Serbian roots and family values.
Training, Diet, and Lifestyle
Djokovic follows a plant-based, gluten-free diet, occasionally consuming fish or meat on training days. His meals include:
- Breakfast: “Power bowl” with seeds, gluten-free muesli, berries, and almond milk
- Lunch: Complex carbs with gluten-free pasta, grilled vegetables, and protein-rich foods
- Snacks: Dried fruits, energy bars, protein shakes, and avocado
He divides his time between luxurious homes in Belgrade, Monte Carlo, Marbella, Miami, and New York, all equipped with tennis courts, gyms, and pools.
Business Ventures and Endorsements
Djokovic has leveraged his success into several business ventures:
- Family Sport: Manages restaurants, health food brands, and sports initiatives
- Djokolife: Health-focused food products
- Eqvita: Vegan restaurant (now closed)
- QuantBioRes: Biotech company, where Djokovic owns 80%
Endorsements
He partners with global brands like Asics, Head, Hublot, Lacoste, and Raiffeisen Bank, contributing to a net worth of $240 million as of May 2025.
Legacy and Achievements
Djokovic’s achievements are unparalleled:
- 24 Grand Slam titles
- 99 ATP titles
- Olympic Gold Medalist
- World No. 1 for 428 weeks
- Career Super Slam and Golden Masters
- All-time leader in prize money
- Winning head-to-head records against Federer, Nadal, and Murray
He has inspired countless athletes worldwide, redefining what longevity and determination mean in modern sports.
FAQs About Novak Djokovic
Q: When did Novak Djokovic start his professional tennis career?
A: In 2003.
Q: How many Grand Slam titles has Djokovic won?
A: 24 as of May 2025.
Q: Who is Novak Djokovic’s coach?
A: Djokovic is currently self-coached. He parted ways with Andy Murray in May 2025.
Q: What is Novak Djokovic’s net worth?
A: Approximately $240 million.
Q: How long has Djokovic been world No. 1?
A: 428 weeks across 13 years.
