LONDON — Novak Djokovic’s 10-year-old son, Stefan, has already made headlines at Wimbledon this year—not for playing, but for collecting autographs from some of the sport’s biggest stars, including his father’s next opponent, Holger Rune.
The young tennis enthusiast has been spotted courtside throughout the tournament, eagerly interacting with players and soaking in the atmosphere. His latest autograph hunt led him to Rune, the 21-year-old Danish sensation who will face Djokovic in the fourth round. "It’s funny because Stefan got Holger’s autograph a few days ago," Djokovic revealed with a smile during a post-match interview.
A Tennis Prodigy in the Making?
Stefan Djokovic is no stranger to the tennis world. Born into a family of champions—his father is a 24-time Grand Slam winner, and his mother, Jelena, is a former professional athlete—Stefan has been seen holding a racket almost as soon as he could walk. While he’s still years away from turning pro, his passion for the game is undeniable.
- Stefan frequently trains at the Novak Tennis Center in Belgrade.
- He has already participated in junior exhibitions, showcasing impressive technique.
- Djokovic has mentioned that Stefan "loves watching matches and learning from the best."
The young Djokovic’s presence at Wimbledon has added a heartwarming subplot to the tournament. Fans have delighted in seeing him cheer for his father, often mimicking Novak’s signature celebrations. "He’s my biggest supporter and my toughest critic," Djokovic joked after his third-round victory.
Meeting the Next Opponent
Stefan’s encounter with Holger Rune wasn’t just a casual fan moment—it was a glimpse into the future of tennis. Rune, currently ranked No. 15 in the world, is one of the sport’s rising stars. The two shared a brief exchange, with Rune signing an autograph and posing for a photo.
Djokovic, known for his meticulous preparation, didn’t seem fazed by the interaction. "Stefan is just enjoying being a kid at Wimbledon. If he picks up a few tips along the way, even better," he said. However, the moment has sparked playful speculation: Could this be a preview of a future rivalry?
A Family Affair
The Djokovic family’s involvement in tennis extends beyond Novak’s career. Jelena Djokovic, a former junior tennis player herself, has been instrumental in fostering Stefan’s love for the game. The couple’s younger child, Tara, has also been seen courtside, though she seems more interested in the snacks than the scoreboard.
Novak has often spoken about balancing fatherhood with his grueling tour schedule. "Having them here makes everything more special. Win or lose, they remind me what really matters," he shared in a recent press conference.
What’s Next for Stefan?
While Stefan is still years away from turning pro, his early exposure to the sport has fans buzzing about his potential. Tennis legends like Boris Becker and John McEnroe have praised his natural talent, with Becker noting, "He’s got the genes and the environment. If he wants it, the sky’s the limit."
For now, though, Stefan remains focused on being a kid—collecting autographs, cheering for his dad, and maybe dreaming of one day holding the Wimbledon trophy himself.
- He has expressed interest in playing junior tournaments in the coming years.
- Djokovic has emphasized that Stefan’s education comes first.
- The family plans to support his passion "as long as he enjoys it."
Conclusion
Stefan Djokovic’s Wimbledon adventure is a reminder of the sport’s generational magic. While his father prepares for another high-stakes match, Stefan’s innocent enthusiasm has brought a refreshing lightness to the tournament. Whether he follows in Novak’s footsteps or carves his own path, one thing is certain: tennis fans will be watching.
As Djokovic gears up to face Rune, the story adds an extra layer of intrigue. "Tennis is a family for us," Djokovic said. And for Stefan, that family just got a little bigger—one autograph at a time.