Tennis legend Novak Djokovic has made headlines with a remarkable $3.9 million donation to convert a house into a shelter for homeless elderly people in his hometown of Belgrade, Serbia. This generous act serves as a heartfelt tribute to his late coach, Jelena Genčić, who discovered and mentored him from age six, and to the city that shaped her legacy. The announcement, shared via the Novak Djokovic Foundation, has sparked widespread admiration, highlighting the 24-time Grand Slam champion’s commitment to giving back.
Born in Belgrade, Djokovic was spotted by Genčić in 1993 at a tennis camp in Kopaonik, where she declared him “the greatest talent since Monica Seles.” Genčić, a revered coach who also mentored Seles and Goran Ivanišević, trained Djokovic for six years, instilling not only tennis fundamentals but also a love for classical music, poetry, and personal growth. She became a second mother to him, shaping his character during Serbia’s turbulent years, including the NATO bombings. Djokovic has often credited her with molding him into the person and player he is today.
The new shelter, set to open in 2026, will provide housing, medical care, and support services for Belgrade’s elderly homeless population. The project transforms a large property into a safe haven, addressing a critical need in a city where economic challenges have left many vulnerable. Djokovic’s donation reflects his deep connection to Belgrade, where he grew up in modest circumstances, and honors Genčić’s legacy of compassion and mentorship. “Jelena taught me to use my gifts to lift others,” Djokovic said in a statement. “This shelter is for her and for Belgrade, the city that gave us both so much.”
This act of philanthropy is not Djokovic’s first. Through the Novak Djokovic Foundation, he and his wife, Jelena, have supported education and disaster relief in Serbia, including a €1 million donation for COVID-19 relief in 2020 and aid during the 2014 floods. His earlier ventures, like opening a free restaurant for Belgrade’s homeless in 2017, show a consistent dedication to social good. The shelter project, however, stands out as a personal tribute, tying his success to the memory of Genčić, who passed away in 2013.
Fans and locals have taken to social media, praising Djokovic’s humility and generosity. Posts on X call the donation “a game-changer for Belgrade’s elderly” and “a fitting tribute to Jelena Genčić’s spirit.” As Djokovic continues to dominate tennis, with a net worth of $240 million, his off-court impact grows equally profound. The shelter will not only provide practical support but also cement Djokovic’s legacy as a champion for his community, honoring the coach and city that set him on the path to greatness.
Stay tuned for updates on this inspiring project, a beacon of hope for Belgrade’s most vulnerable.
