Novak Djokovic paid heartfelt tribute to the late Nikola Pilic at a Davis Cup ceremony this week, whilst also explaining his decision not to watch the full ATP Finals clash between Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner
Novak Djokovic delivered a heartfelt tribute to tennis legend Nikola Pilic at this week’s Davis Cup proceedings. The 1970 doubles US Open champion passed away in September, aged 86, with a special ceremony held in his memory that drew the attendance of Djokovic, Ivan Ljubicic and Boris Becker.
Pilic guided a German squad featuring Becker to Davis Cup glory in 1988 and 1989, before steering Ljubicic and his homeland Croatia to triumph in the 2005 edition of the tournament. He also tasted success as part of Serbia’s coaching setup in 2010, where he collaborated with Djokovic.
Consequently, all three tennis stars were present to deliver moving tributes to the sporting icon at this week’s Bologna event. Djokovic offered an emotional address to the late Split-born legend.
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He said: “Thank you to everyone who came, this is a moment of mixed emotions for me. When we received the news, it was one of the saddest moments for me, because Nicky was so important in my life, my career, as well as the careers of all the gentlemen behind me.
“I have to say that there is no better competition than the Davis Cup to celebrate what Niki Pilic has done, who will remain the only coach in this most important team competition to win the trophy with three countries – Germany, Croatia and Serbia.
“It is an incredible performance, which probably no one will repeat. Nikki, you will always be remembered. We love you.”
Pilic also claimed the Davis Cup with Germany in 1993, bringing his total victories to five across all roles.
Elsewhere at the ceremony, Djokovic addressed the media regarding Jannik Sinner’s 7-6, 7-5 win over Carlos Alcaraz at the ATP Finals over the weekend.
Whilst Djokovic secured his place to compete in the finals, he chose to pull out of the tournament due to injury.
During his interview at this week’s Davis Cup, he also disclosed that he avoided watching the entire clash between Alcaraz and Sinner.
Speaking in Italian, he said: “I didn’t watch the whole match; however, I watched the first set because now, as usual, it’s a tradition when they play them. The first set is 7-6 in one way or another; however, with a lot of attention, a lot of intensity and an astronomical level. Honestly, very good.”
Djokovic also explained why he decided against viewing the complete match. He added: “I don’t like to watch because I want to be there.
“Though matches of the two of them now, with pleasure I watch because of the very high level. And the rivalry of the two of them is a very positive thing for our sport.”
Sky Sports discounted Premier League and EFL package
Sky has slashed the price of its Essential TV and Sky Sports bundle ahead of the 2025/26 season, saving members £192 and offering more than 1,400 live matches across the Premier League, EFL and more.
Sky will show at least 215 live Premier League games next season, an increase of up to 100 more.
