Sport
Novak Djoković and Tennis in Serbia
The story of the greatest tennis player of his era, and what tennis fans can see in Belgrade.
Quick answer
Novak Djoković grew up in Belgrade and became one of the greatest players in history, with a record 24 Grand Slam singles titles and Olympic gold in Paris 2024. Serbia also produced Ana Ivanović, 2008 French Open champion, and Jelena Janković, former world No. 1. Note: the Novak Tennis Center in Dorćol has closed and the land was returned to the city.
Quick facts
- Novak Djoković
- 24 Grand Slam singles titles; Olympic gold 2024
- Ana Ivanović
- French Open champion 2008
- Jelena Janković
- Former world No. 1
- Novak Tennis Center
- Closed; returned to the City of Belgrade
- Last checked
- 28 Oct 2026
Novak’s Belgrade
Djoković learned the game in Belgrade during the hard 1990s, famously training in an empty swimming pool during the 1999 bombing. For fans, the city itself is the story: the clay courts of Ada Ciganlija and the neighbourhoods where Serbian tennis grew up.
The golden generation
- Novak Djoković: record 24 Grand Slam singles titles
- Ana Ivanović: 2008 French Open champion, world No. 1
- Jelena Janković: world No. 1 in 2008
- Nenad Zimonjić: doubles world No. 1
Play tennis in Belgrade
Public and club courts are spread across the city, including several on Ada Ciganlija. Book by phone or in person; prices are reasonable compared to Western Europe.
Tip: Check the current tournament calendar before you build a trip around tennis, as events in Belgrade change from year to year.
Frequently asked questions
Can I visit the Novak Tennis Center?
It has closed; Djoković’s company returned the land to the City of Belgrade.
How many Grand Slams has Djoković won?
24 singles titles, the men’s record.
Sources
Checked 28 Oct 2026. Prices and timetables change; confirm before you travel.
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