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Novak Djokovic’s love affair with Greece - his newly adopted home - has already begun, and it is off to a golden start. Just weeks after moving his family from Belgrade to Athens, the Serbian legend lifted his first trophy on Greek soil, winning the inaugural Hellenic Championship. The 24-time Grand Slam champion defeated Italy’s Lorenzo Musetti in a pulsating final that lasted just under three hours, marking his 101st ATP career title - and his first as a resident of Greece. The ATP 250 event was Greece’s first top-tier men’s tennis tournament in over three decades, and Djokovic made it a debut to remember with a 4-6, 6-3, 7-5 comeback victory. However, his celebrations were tempered by a subsequent announcement — just an hour after his win, the 38-year-old confirmed his withdrawal from the ATP Finals due to injury, handing Musetti a spot in the year-end event in Turin. Speaking after the match, Djokovic expressed heartfelt gratitude toward his new home crowd. “Like at home. I love it!” he told the ATP. “I want to thank everybody for coming out today and all week, supporting me and all the players. It’s been amazing for everyone.” 'Perfect finale' Reflecting on the gruelling battle, he added: “Incredible. I don’t know. Three hours of a gruelling match physically. Super demanding. Lorenzo played really well. It could have been anybody’s match. Congrats to him for an amazing performance, and I’m just very proud of myself to get through this one.” During the trophy ceremony, Djokovic addressed the fans directly, calling the week a “perfect finale.” “This is the first time Greece has had this level of men’s tennis tournament in more than 30 years,” he said. “It felt like the tournament had always been here. You guys were amazing. Thank you so much. Playing here and just being here feels like home.” Djokovic explains why he moves to Greece He also praised the tournament’s swift organisation, saying: “In a combined effort with the government of Greece and all the authorities, this tournament happened in just three or four months. Many people don’t understand how challenging that is at this level. You’ve shown such passion and love for tennis — I hope Athens continues this tradition.” Earlier in the week, Djokovic explained his decision to relocate to Greece, telling CNN Greece that it was both personal and cultural. “There’s a lot of historical, religious, cultural, and social ties between Greece and Serbia,” he said. “That’s a big part of the reason why I’m here. The weather, the food, the coastline — it’s one of the nicest in Europe, in the world. I just love the lifestyle. I really feel that the Greek and Serbian people are like brothers.” For Djokovic, Athens already feels more than just a home base — it’s a new chapter. And if his first week as a local is any indication, it’s one that’s bound to be filled with both sunshine and silverware.
