Novak Djokovic, Serbia’s most celebrated athlete, is facing a smear campaign allegedly orchestrated by government officials.
Serbian state-aligned media have branded Novak Djokovic a “national disgrace,” tying the claim to speculation he plans to relocate to Greece.
Reports suggest the move intensified after Djokovic voiced support for anti-government protesters and condemned violence in Serbia.
Coverage of the tennis star has escalated in recent months, with journalist Jaschar Dugalic writing in Neue Zürcher Zeitung, the government is actively targeting him.
According to Dugalic, regime-friendly outlets are being used to undermine Djokovic’s reputation, despite the fact he has never openly criticised the government.
The attacks on Djokovic come during a wave of anti-government protests in Serbia demanding accountability and democratic reforms.
These demonstrations began after the collapse of Novi Sad’s railway station canopy which killed 16 people, sparking outrage over corruption.
What started as student-led vigils grew into a nationwide movement with blockades, campus occupations and mass marches.
Protesters called for reconstruction documents to be made public, the dismissal of implicated officials and criminal charges for abuses.
Clashes have broken out in Belgrade, Novi Sad and Valjevo, with protesters setting fire to offices and police responding with tear gas.
President Aleksandar Vucic has branded the demonstrators “terrorists” and blamed foreign interference for the unrest.
International organisations, including the Council of Europe, have condemned the government’s heavy-handed response and called for dialogue.
Djokovic’s high profile has made him a target, with critics suggesting the smear campaign is a political distraction.