Novak Djokovic has made it clear that his recent relocation to Greece does not signal the end of his commitment to representing Serbia in the Davis Cup, according to national team captain Viktor Troicki.
The 24-time Grand Slam champion has been absent from Serbia’s recent Davis Cup qualifiers after withdrawing from the early-2025 tie against Denmark due to a hamstring injury. Since then, Djokovic has spent much of his time in Athens, where he now lives with his family and continues to train and compete on the ATP Tour.
Despite his absence, Troicki insists Djokovic remains a central figure in Serbia’s Davis Cup plans and could return to the squad once he is fully fit.
“Novak thinks that Serbia can continue to progress in the Davis Cup, and he would like to play and keep representing his country,” Troicki said. “For over 20 years, Djokovic has played with passion for our country.”
Novak Djokovic Injury, age, scheduling challenges
Djokovic’s withdrawal from recent ties was driven by physical limitations rather than any loss of desire to play for Serbia. Now 38, the Serb has faced increasing challenges managing injuries and adapting to different playing surfaces across a demanding calendar.
“In recent years, it hasn’t been easy for him to play on different surfaces, and it’s hard for him not to be with the team,” Troicki added. “But he wants to play when he is available, and he still gives us his support.”
Serbia will continue its Davis Cup campaign without Djokovic in the immediate future, including upcoming World Group qualifier ties. However, Troicki suggested the door remains wide open for Djokovic’s return should Serbia progress deeper into the competition.
New base in Greece draws attention
The former world No. 1 relocated with his wife and children, obtained Greece’s Golden Visa, and settled in the coastal suburb of Glyfada, which has become his primary training base.
The move has been linked to family considerations, education for his children, and a desire for greater stability following political and media tensions in Serbia. Djokovic has continued to compete regularly on the ATP Tour while based in Greece, making clear that the relocation is logistical rather than symbolic.
Troicki was keen to dispel any suggestion that the move has affected Djokovic’s relationship with the Serbian national team.
“There is no animosity,” he said. “This is about the realities of age, recovery, and scheduling- not about his love for Serbia.”
A decorated Davis Cup legacy
Novak Djokovic last played for Serbia in the Davis Cup in September 2024 and remains the most successful player in the nation’s tennis history. He famously led Serbia to its only Davis Cup title in 2010, defeating France in the final.
While Djokovic has scaled back his Davis Cup appearances in recent seasons, he has repeatedly stated that representing Serbia remains one of the great honors of his career.
The Serb is also targeting a prolonged career at the highest level, having spoken openly about his ambition to compete at the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games.
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Future still open
For now, Serbia will rely on players such as Dušan Lajović as they attempt to progress through the Davis Cup qualifiers. Yet Troicki believes Djokovic’s presence- whether on court or behind the scene- continues to provide a major boost.
If fitness allows, a return to the red, blue, and white of Serbia may still lie ahead.
“Novak wants to play,” Troicki said. “And when he’s ready, he’ll always be welcome.”
