Early Life and Education of Novak Djokovic: A Complete Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: July 12, 2026

How education and upbringing influenced the life of Novak Djokovic. A timeline of key moments.

Novak Djokovic is a Serbian professional tennis player widely regarded as one of the greatest athletes in the history of the sport. Throughout his illustrious career, he has achieved unprecedented success, holding the record for the most Grand Slam men's singles titles. Known for his exceptional physical endurance, tactical intelligence, and defensive baseline play, Djokovic has spent more weeks at world number one than any other player in ATP rankings history. His dominance spans all surfaces, and he is the only male player to achieve a triple Career Grand Slam. Beyond his titles, his career is defined by his intense rivalries with fellow legends Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal, which collectively shaped the modern era of tennis. A polarizing yet undeniably brilliant figure, Djokovic continues to compete at the highest level, constantly redefining the longevity and standards of professional tennis.

Sections (6)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles Legacy & Impact

May 1987: Birth of Novak Djokovic

On 22 May 1987, Novak Djokovic was born in Belgrade, SR Serbia, SFR Yugoslavia, to parents Dijana and Srdjan Djokovic.

1993: Meeting with Jelena Genčić

In the summer of 1993, six-year-old Novak Djokovic met tennis coach Jelena Genčić at a camp on Mount Kopaonik. This encounter marked the beginning of a six-year mentorship where Genčić significantly influenced his technical development, including his backhand technique, and his overall professional mindset.

September 1999: Djokovic moves to Pilić tennis academy

In September 1999, after being recommended by Jelena Genčić, a young Novak Djokovic relocated to Oberschleißheim, Germany, to train at the prestigious Pilić tennis academy. This move marked the beginning of a significant four-year period in his development as a professional athlete.

2005: Beginning of relationship with Jelena Ristić

In 2005, Novak Djokovic began dating his high school sweetheart, Jelena Ristić.

2009: Confirmation of Discussions Regarding British Representation

In 2009, Novak Djokovic confirmed that there had been serious negotiations in 2006 regarding the possibility of him representing Great Britain, but he ultimately decided to remain loyal to his home nation, Serbia, citing national pride over the better training conditions offered abroad.

September 2013: Engagement to Jelena Ristić

In September 2013, Novak Djokovic and Jelena Ristić announced their engagement.

July 2014: Marriage to Jelena Ristić

On 10 July 2014, Novak Djokovic married Jelena Ristić at the Serbian Orthodox Church of Saint Stephen located on the island of Sveti Stefan in Montenegro.

October 2014: Birth of first child

In October 2014, Novak Djokovic and his wife, Jelena, welcomed the birth of their first child, a son.

2017: Birth of daughter

In 2017, Novak Djokovic and his wife, Jelena, celebrated the birth of their daughter.

2017: Elbow Injury Setback

In 2017, Novak Djokovic struggled with a significant elbow injury that hampered his performance and weakened his overall results on the professional circuit.

2022: Vaccine Mandate Controversy

Throughout 2022, Djokovic faced significant controversies and missed several major tournaments, including the Australian Open and US Open, due to his opposition to COVID-19 vaccine mandates, which resulted in his deportation from Australia.