Djokovic Reveals How He Met Wife Jelena – Through a Friend‘s Public Declaration of Love
MONTE CARLO – Novak Djokovic shared a surprising story about the origins of his relationship with wife Jelena, revealing he first learned of her through a rather public display by a friend and fellow tennis player. In a recent interview with Piers Morgan, the Serbian tennis star recounted how his future wife was initially known to him as the recipient of a bold, on-court message.
The story unfolded during a regional league match were Djokovic’s friend, also a tennis player, removed his jersey after a victory to reveal a white t-shirt emblazoned with the message: “Jelena I love you, this is for you.” Djokovic and his teammates were initially taken aback.”We were like: ‘oh my god, that’s so stupid, why did you do that? And who is this Jelena?'” he recalled to Morgan. ”and it was her!”
Though they didn’t connect immediately, Djokovic explained they moved in similar social circles for several years. “She was with him, she came and went, so we saw each other through mutual friends for four or five years,” he said, noting a close friend and Jelena had attended school together.
The relationship between Djokovic and Jelena blossomed after he moved to Monte-Carlo in 2007, following her separation from the friend. “Yes, she had separated (from my friend), let’s be clear, don’t embarrass me!” Djokovic joked. Jelena was then studying in Italy.
Djokovic has consistently described Jelena as his “rock” and “the love of my life.” He confirmed he spoke with his friend recently, stating, “He is fine. He has moved on,” and that they’ve largely avoided discussing the situation, maintaining a friendly relationship despite the unconventional beginnings.
The couple, who have been together since Djokovic was 18 and Jelena was 19, recently celebrated their ten-year wedding anniversary, with Djokovic sharing a heartfelt message on Instagram: “Ten years of joy, ten years of dreams… ten years of you, the best part of me… ten years together, ten years Jelena, I love you forever.” Jelena is now the director of the Novak Djokovic Foundation, and the tennis star credits her support as crucial to his continued success.
