GRATITUDE IN STONE: Wimbledon Approves $3.5M Statue to Honor Novak Djokovic Outside Centre Court 🎾🙌

In a historic and heartfelt decision, Wimbledon officials have officially approved a $3.5 million project to erect a life-sized statue of tennis icon Novak Djokovic outside Centre Court — a timeless tribute to one of the most dominant, beloved, and groundbreaking players in the sport’s history.

The announcement came early this morning from the All England Club’s Executive Committee, which voted unanimously to move forward with the project after years of discussion. With this decision, Djokovic will join the ranks of only a handful of players who have been immortalized in bronze — a gesture of immense respect and recognition for his unmatched legacy at SW19.

“A Champion. A Fighter. A Legacy.”

Novak Djokovic is not just a champion of titles, but of perseverance, sportsmanship, and evolution. His seven Wimbledon titles, countless epic five-set battles, and his unwavering ability to defy odds on grass courts have solidified him as one of the greatest to ever grace Centre Court.

But beyond the numbers, it’s the spirit he brings — the passion, the respect for tradition, and the emotional connection with fans — that makes him stand apart. As one committee member put it:

“This statue is not only about tennis. It’s about a man who has inspired generations. It’s a tribute to resilience, to humility, and to greatness.”

A Long-Awaited Honor

While many fans believed this kind of tribute was long overdue, insiders say the delay was never about reluctance — but about timing. With Djokovic still active and competitive in the sport, organizers wanted to wait for the “right moment” when such a gesture would resonate not only with tennis historians, but also with current and future fans.

That moment, it seems, is now.

Following his emotional speech at this year’s Wimbledon, where he was seen tearing up while addressing both the crowd and his young son in the stands, momentum grew online to honor him in a permanent way. The hashtag #StatueForNovak began trending, and within days, petitions had garnered over 2 million signatures worldwide.

Statue Design and Location

The statue is set to be designed by renowned British sculptor Anya Penrose, known for her dynamic work in capturing emotion and movement in athletes. According to preliminary sketches, the statue will feature Djokovic mid-serve — a nod to the precision, power, and poise he brought to every match at Wimbledon.

The structure will stand just outside the main gates of Centre Court, alongside other tennis greats like Fred Perry and Rod Laver, symbolizing Djokovic’s permanent place in Wimbledon’s — and tennis’s — elite pantheon.

Djokovic Responds with Humility

Upon hearing the news, Djokovic released a short but emotional statement via his team:

“I am deeply honored and truly humbled. Wimbledon has always held a sacred place in my heart. To be remembered in this way, at this place, is beyond anything I ever dreamed as a young boy hitting balls against a wall in Serbia.”

Sources close to the athlete say he was “visibly moved” and plans to be involved in the design process — not to perfect his likeness, but to ensure the statue captures “the spirit of every player who’s ever fought for a dream.”

Fans React Around the World

The response has been overwhelming. From Belgrade to London, Tokyo to Melbourne, tennis lovers flooded social media with messages of support, gratitude, and celebration. Many pointed out how Djokovic’s journey — from war-torn Serbia to the lawns of Wimbledon — is a story that deserves to be told in bronze, for generations to see.

As one fan wrote:

“This isn’t just a statue. It’s a symbol of how far heart and discipline can take you.”

Completion Date and Unveiling

Construction is expected to begin later this year, with an official unveiling scheduled for summer 2026, just before the start of Wimbledon. Djokovic has been personally invited to attend, and organizers are hoping it will be one of the most emotional ceremonies in Wimbledon history.

Until then, one thing is clear: Novak Djokovic’s name is no longer just written in the record books — it will soon be carved in stone.