A mural of tennis player Novak Djokovic in Belgrade has been defaced after the sportsman decided to leave Serbia and move with his family to Greece. Djokovic moved to Athens in September after several months of tensions with the Serbian government.
According to local media, the executive may have targeted the athlete for expressing support for student protests that followed the collapse of the roof of a railway station in Novi Sad, a tragedy in which 16 people died.
During these demonstrations, the young people warned of alleged cases of corruption and demanded political change in the country. Djokovic’s public support for the students was not well received by the media close to President Aleksandar Vucic, who lashed out at him.
“As someone who deeply believes in the power of youth and their desire for a better future, I consider it important that their voices are heard. Serbia has enormous potential, and its educated youth is its greatest strength. What we all need is understanding and respect. With you, Novak,” said the Serbian tennis player.
He was even recently photographed at a basketball game wearing a sweatshirt that read “Students are champions”, reaffirming his support for the protests.
The vandalized mural was painted earlier this year by urban artist Andrej Josifovski. On social media, Josifovski denounced the act of vandalism, showing images of the before and after.
While President Vucic tries to downplay rumors of a political conflict, assuring that “he will never speak ill of Djokovic”.
New life in Athens
Meanwhile, Djokovic and his family seem to have settled into their new life in Greece. The tennis player has enrolled his children at the British school Saint Lawrence College.
Greek media suggest that the world number one is considering applying for the country’s Golden Visa, which grants residency to foreigners who invest in Greek territory. It is also known that he has held meetings with Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis in recent months.
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