Now there’s a homecoming every sports star imagines for themselves. Novak Djokovic is back in Serbia, and what would you know? Upon his return, he was crowned King, conquering the highest laurel the sporting world has to offer –  fetching an Olympic gold. While Nole’s breathtaking achievement is being celebrated by millions, with a plethora of emotions turning upside down, his father was in seventh heaven as well!

The Serbian superstar made waves at the Paris Olympics this season. Despite enduring a medial meniscus tear in his right knee at the French Open and undergoing surgery to remedy the concern, Nole was off the flier at the quadrennial event. He commenced his Olympic dream run by decimating Matthew Ebden in straight sets and later thrashing his arch-nemesis Rafael Nadal. The subsequent rounds saw him swiftly move past challenges from the likes of Dominik Koepfer, Stefanos Tsitsipas, and Lorenzo Musseti.

Finally, in the event’s summit clash, the Serb downed the Spaniard Carlos Alcaraz, 7-6(3), 7-6(2), to become the oldest man to clinch the elusive gold and with it, complete a career Golden Slam. Upon returning to his country, Djokovic was given a hero’s welcome by fans and his parents.

The former World No. 1 received a huge roar from the Serbians after he walked out at Belgrade’s Old Palace, with thousands of fans chanting his name. Standing in the crowd was his father, Srdjan Djokovic. In a video uploaded on X, the proud dad was visibly unable to hold back his tears as Nole kissed his gold medal and raised it for the Serbians. Furthermore, Djokovic Sr. also recorded his son’s homecoming ceremony.

Sjrdan has stood by his son through thick and thin. No matter the odds, he faced them head-on to ensure his son would be able to fulfill his dream. In fact, biographer Mark Hodgkins revealed “It was a huge amount of financial stress on Novak’s parents.” However, he maintained the belief that “my son is going to be the greatest ever.” Hodgkins further said, “I think at the time people were laughing at Novak’s dad.“ Now, he is the one who’s smiling.

He celebrated his 37-year-old son’s achievement with Serbian fans as it was long due. Following his Olympic glory, Nole penned a heartfelt note to his country, thanking them for their unwavering support.

Novak Djokovic credits his countrymen for their perseverance

24-time Grand Slam champion Djokovic was more than ecstatic with his Olympic glory. After embracing a wave of untethering emotions, he turned to thank Serbia for their unbridled support on his official social media handles. The 37-year-old further termed representing his nation as the “greatest honor.”

He said, “I could never give up on the dream of winning this gold medal, just as the people of Serbia have never given up on me. Together, we believed in the impossible. While I may be the one holding this medal, I want every Serbian to know that it belongs to all of us. Representing our nation is the greatest honor in the world. This medal, these moments, this life—none of it would have been possible without your unwavering support. This is because of you. This is for you.”

After skipping the Canadian Open, Djokovic has pulled out of the upcoming Cincinnati Masters. The Serb is likely taking some off to recover and celebrate his triumph. Nole is slated to perform at the US Open next, where he will aim to create history once again.