Present this week at the Athens tournament, Novak Djokovic was very touched by the tribute paid Tuesday to Nikola Pilic, his former coach.
On September 22, Nikola Pilic passed away at the age of 86. A former professional tennis player before becoming a coach, the man who reached twelfth world ranking in singles in 1973 became the mentor of Novak Djokovic. Very close to Pilic, the Serb was very affected by his death. This Tuesday, during a tribute to the native of Split, “Nole” burst into tears.
Present this week in Greece to compete in the Athens tournament, Novak Djokovic defeated the Chilean Alejandro Tabilo on Tuesday (7-6 (3), 6-1, 8th final). It was after this meeting that the organizers wanted to pay tribute to the deceased. A video was then broadcast and Novak Djokovic watched it with great emotion before saying a few words.
” I’m sorry (to cry)but Niki was more than just a mentor and coach to me. He was part of our family, to my brothers and me. He helped me so much. I certainly wouldn’t be who I am today without him. He died a few months ago and I would like to ask for your patience and support in paying him the tribute he deserves. It’s a legend. »
Djokovic and Pilic, a long story
Trained by Jelena Gencic in his early days between 1993 and 1999, Novak Djokovic was then taken over at the age of twelve by Nikola Pilic. The latter will take care of it until 2003 in his academy located in Munich. The Serbian nugget will turn professional when he leaves the academy at sixteen. From 2004, he confirmed his incredible potential by notably reaching the semi-final of the Australian Open among Juniors.
The two men will never lose sight of each other. At the time of Nikola Pilic’s death, “Nole” paid him a vibrant tribute: “The most important thing is to be able to proudly call yourself ‘Sjor Niko, my tennis father’. »
