Novak Djokovic, the 24-time Grand Slam champion, added another chapter to his storied career with a triumphant victory at the 2025 Monte-Carlo Masters, defeating Carlos Alcaraz in a thrilling 7-5, 6-4 final. However, it was his touching gesture toward an 80-year-old woman who has worked at his Monte Carlo home for over a decade that captured the hearts of fans worldwide. The woman, identified as Maria, a longtime housekeeper and devoted supporter, attended the match to cheer Djokovic on, and his heartfelt act of gratitude left spectators and social media users in awe.
The Monte-Carlo Masters final was a showcase of Djokovic’s resilience. After a challenging start to the 2025 season, including an eye infection that hampered his Miami Open performance and a shocking second-round loss to Alejandro Tabilo in Monte Carlo the previous year, Djokovic arrived on the clay courts determined to reclaim his dominance. Facing the formidable Alcaraz, who had been hailed for his own touching gesture toward an elderly woman earlier in the tournament, Djokovic delivered a masterclass in precision and mental fortitude. His victory marked his third Monte-Carlo title, further solidifying his legacy on the ATP Tour.
As the crowd roared in appreciation, Djokovic’s attention turned to the stands, where Maria, frail yet beaming with pride, waved a Serbian flag. Maria, who has quietly supported Djokovic’s career by maintaining his Monte Carlo residence, had never attended one of his matches in person due to her age and health. This time, Djokovic’s team arranged for her to be courtside, a surprise that brought tears to her eyes. After lifting the trophy, Djokovic made his way to Maria, embracing her warmly and presenting her with his match-worn wristband, a cherished memento. In a poignant moment captured on camera, he knelt beside her, whispering words of gratitude that left Maria visibly moved.
“It was a special day for me, not just because of the title, but because Maria was here,” Djokovic said in his post-match press conference. “She’s been part of my family for years, always supporting me behind the scenes. Seeing her in the stands gave me extra motivation.” He also revealed that he had arranged for Maria to receive a VIP tour of the Monte-Carlo Country Club and a framed photo of the moment they shared, ensuring her day was unforgettable.
The gesture sparked an outpouring of emotion on social media, particularly on X, where fans praised Djokovic’s humility. One user wrote, “Novak winning Monte-Carlo and then honoring Maria like that? This is why he’s a legend on and off the court.” Another posted, “That moment with the 80-year-old housekeeper had me in tears. Novak’s heart is as big as his forehand.” The story also drew comparisons to Alcaraz’s earlier act of kindness, with some calling 2025 the “year of heartfelt gestures” in tennis.
Djokovic’s act underscores his reputation for connecting with those who support him quietly. Known for small but meaningful gestures—like sharing an umbrella with a ballboy at the 2014 French Open or acknowledging his bodyguard at Monte-Carlo in 2025—Djokovic continues to win fans with his empathy. For Maria, the experience was a dream come true. Her family later shared that she described the day as “the happiest of my life.”
As Djokovic prepares for the French Open, starting May 25, 2025, his Monte-Carlo victory and touching tribute to Maria have reignited admiration for his character. In a sport often defined by fierce competition, Djokovic’s gesture reminds us that kindness can shine as brightly as any trophy.
