Novak Djokovic showed his love for Greece during the recent Hellenic Championship. The 38-year-old won the 101st title of his career on his new home soil after reportedly receiving a golden visa in Greece.
During the tournament, Djokovic spoke openly about his relationship with the country after relocating. “It feels really at home, playing in Athens,” he said after reaching the quarter-finals. “A few months ago, when I came here with my family, I was very excited because I have always loved Greece. Serbians love Greece, for sure. Historically, culturally, and religiously, we have a lot of things connecting us. Athens is in my heart, no question about it.” This has led to claims that Djokovic has invested in a golden visa, also referred to as a ‘golden passport’.
Serbian outlet Sportal reports that to become an Athens resident, Djokovic and his family must have invested in obtaining a golden visa. The minimum real estate investment required to be granted a golden visa in Greece is £352k, though the cost is doubled to £705k to invest in certain areas, such as Athens.
This is considered one of the most cost-effective ways for wealthy individuals to obtain a golden visa, with prices varying across different countries. A golden visa allows residents to travel freely across the Schengen Area of Europe.
In the case of Greece, there is no requirement for those holding a golden visa to relocate, and their residence permit has no expiry date. The residence is also applicable to the applicant’s spouse, their children under the age of 21, as well as the parents of the married couple.
In June, Djokovic visited Greece with his wife Jelena after losing to Jannik Sinner in the French Open semi-finals. The tennis legend’s trip captured attention, and it was subsequently claimed that Djokovic’s family planned to relocate after the US Open.
While Sportal states that Djokovic intends to remain based in Monte Carlo, the Serbian publication explains that he will also spend time in Greece after allegedly receiving a golden visa. It is speculated that Djokovic has purchased property in Greece, though this has not been confirmed.
Golden visas allow holders to live and work abroad in exchange for substantial investments. In addition to the aforementioned benefits, any purchased real estate can be rented out, and those with a golden visa can also earn income from companies based in Greece without being required to relocate. There is also an opportunity to apply for Greek citizenship after seven years of residence.
Away from his potential investments, Djokovic has also laid out his plans on the court. After defeating Lorenzo Musetti in the Athens final, he outlined when he may choose to retire from the sport.
“I’ve always had this throughout my life and my career, I’ve always had a schedule in my head for a year or more, what I want, how I want it,” Djokovic said.
“Since I’ve achieved absolutely all possible goals, I said about the 2028 Olympics because I wanted to play for so many more years. So maybe ending up at the Olympic Games with the Serbian flag, that would be nice.”