Novak Djokovic Triumphs in Greece’s Tennis Revival
Novak Djokovic overcame a challenging start to defeat Chile’s Alejandro Tabilo 7-6 (3), 6-1 at the Hellenic Championship, marking the return of top-tier tennis to Greece after over 30 years. The opening set saw both players holding serve under pressure until Djokovic narrowly won the tiebreaker.
In the second set, the momentum swung decisively as the top seed broke Tabilo twice, securing the match in just over 90 minutes. This victory advanced Djokovic to the quarterfinals of the ATP 250 event, the first major tennis tournament in Greece since 1994.
Support from Home and Family
The Telekom Center in Athens provided continuous encouragement for the 38-year-old Serb, who relocated to Athens with his family earlier this year. Djokovic expressed his strong connection to the city in an on-court interview:
“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.”
Overcoming Past Defeats
Djokovic admitted the match carried extra pressure, having lost his previous two matches against 28-year-old Tabilo. Addressing the crowd, he said:
“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.”
Emotional Tribute
During the event, Djokovic was visibly moved while watching a tribute video for Croatian tennis legend Nikola Pilic, who passed away earlier this year. Djokovic had trained at Pilic’s academy during his teenage years.
Author’s summary: Novak Djokovic’s victory at the Hellenic Championship celebrates the return of elite tennis to Greece and reflects his deepening bond with his new home in Athens.