"Novak Djokovic was under significant pressure, yet he said nothing of substance"-Fans debate as Serb issues statement on students' protests in Serbia

Several fans have responded to Novak Djokovic's remarks regarding the ongoing student protests in Serbia. The protests began in November after 15 people were killed when a canopy collapsed at a railway station in the city of Novi Sad.

The rally, led by university students, included hundreds of protesters and took place outside Serbia's state television headquarters in Belgrade. The students' protest is reportedly against President Aleksandar Vučić’s government. Many in the country blame widespread corruption for the shoddy renovation work on the station building, which ultimately led to the canopy's collapse.

Students voiced their frustration with whistles and jeers, directing their discontent toward RTS television for airing Vučić's claim that the protesters were funded by the West to destabilize his government.

Following these events, 24-time Major champion Novak Djokovic stressed the need for the student's voices to be heard. Taking to X (formerly Twitter), he spoke about their potential and desire for a better future. He wrote:

"As someone who deeply believes in the strength of the young people and their desire for a better future, I believe it is important for their voices to be heard. Serbia has enormous potential and educated youth is its greatest strength. What we all need is understanding and respect. With you, Novak" (Translated from Serbian).

A fan later shared the Serb's comments on Reddit, and the post received varied opinions from the fans. One fan criticized the "lack of substance" in Djokovic's statement, urging greater attention to Serbia's escalating political crisis.

"This statement feels quite lukewarm considering the dire situation currently unfolding in Serbia. Novak was under significant pressure to show support, yet he essentially said nothing of substance. It’s crucial for people to open their eyes to the reality, as the country is facing intense media suppression and is under a dictatorial regime. The situation has never been worse, and it deserves more attention."

Comment byu/LukaLaban1984 from discussion intennis

Another fan wrote:

"He’s close to the government & the elites, & very nationalistic & conservative. He also has political aspirations & doesn’t want to alienate the politicians he needs to aid him into position. He was never gonna tweet “power to the people! Overthrow the pigs!” "

Another fan expressed mixed feelings about Djokovic, writing:

"As much as I support Novak, there is no denying the possibility that he will go full on right wing Serbian nationalist when he retires,"

Here are some more fan reactions:

"In all fairness to him, I would not have known of the situation if he had not tweeted even this. I'm not sure if he feels limited in his speech but even this statement has gotten attention for the protests from people all over the globe," a fan wrote.

"Yeah he's not going to ask for a coup or lead a political movement as he has never been a political person. He responded in support of the protests, so he's not pro-government. Reading is very difficult, I know," another chimed in.

"Very mild statement but i’l take it," a fan said.

Novak Djokovic hails from Belgrade, located less than 100 km from Novi Sad.

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"My heart goes out to all those affected by the tragedy in Novi Sad" - Novak Djokovic reacts to tragic incident

Novak Djokovic at 2024 French Open - Source: Getty

Novak Djokovic extended his heartfelt condolences to the families impacted by the horrific incident in Novi Sad, on his Instagram story earlier.

He wrote:

"My heart goes out to all those affected by the tragedy in Novi Sad. Our deepest condolences, thoughts and prayers to the victims' families,"

The 37-year-old last competed in the Shanghai Masters final against World No. 1 Jannik Sinner. However, he lost 6-7(4), 6-3 to the Italian, ending his pursuit of a first tour title in 2024.

Although Djokovic did not secure an ATP title, he recorded an impressive 37-9 win-loss record and claimed his maiden Olympic gold medal in Paris this year.