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Novak Djokovic Mourns Mentor Nikola Pilic, Plans to Play Shanghai Masters

The 24-time major champion calls the Croatian coach his father in tennis in a message recalling wartime support.

Overview

  • Nikola Pilic, a key influence on Djokovic since 1999 at his Munich academy, died at age 86, according to reports.
  • Djokovic said on Instagram that he felt a void and sadness after learning the news during a training session.
  • He thanked Pilic and his wife, Mia, for welcoming his family during late-1990s bombings and helping him pursue tennis.
  • Pilic was the 1973 Roland Garros runner-up and a five-time Davis Cup–winning captain.
  • Djokovic is preparing for the ATP Masters 1000 tournament in Shanghai scheduled for October 1–12.