Novak Djokovic overcame a challenging start to defeat Chile’s Alejandro Tabilo 7-6 (3), 6-1 at the Hellenic Championship on Tuesday. This marked the return of elite tennis to Greece after more than three decades.
The Telekom Center crowd in Athens passionately supported the 38-year-old Serbian, who relocated with his family to Athens earlier this year. Reflecting on his experience, Djokovic said:
“It feels really like home playing in Athens. More than recognition for my tennis achievements, I felt that people here approached me in a friendly and humane way, and that touched my heart.”
Djokovic acknowledged his previous two losses to the 28-year-old Tabilo, sharing with the audience:
“I’m thrilled to get through tonight. I played against Tabilo and I’ve never won against him, so I was more under tension before the match than I would be before some others.”
During the event, Djokovic became emotional watching a tribute video for Croatian tennis legend Nikola Pilic, who passed away earlier this year. Pilic had coached Djokovic as a teenager at his academy.
Novak Djokovic's victory in Athens not only marks his progression in the ATP 250 but also symbolizes a heartfelt homecoming for the tennis star and the sport in Greece after decades.