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Djokovic Tears Up in Athens Tribute to Late Coach Niki Pilic

Djokovic vowed to honor the mentor he calls his tennis father.

Overview

  • After beating Chile's Alejandro Tabilo 7:6 (7:3), 6:1 in the Athens round of 16, Djokovic grew emotional during an on-court remembrance.
  • A video honoring Pilic played on the arena screen, and Djokovic paused, moved the microphone away, and wiped tears from his eyes.
  • He described Pilic as more than a coach, calling him his tennis father and a figure who helped him and his brothers.
  • Djokovic pledged to keep Pilic's name in honor as he continues his career, saying the legacy will never fade.
  • Pilic, a Croatian-born Davis Cup icon nicknamed Mr. Davis Cup for titles with Germany in 1988, 1989, and 1993, also advised Serbia's 2010 triumph and died in September at 86.