Tennis: Estoril Open

Title for Novak Djokovic

The 19-year-old Djokovic leads the ATP circuit with a 31:6 match record this year, which includes a 6:1 record on clay courts


By WAVE Editorial Team
from Belgrade, SERBIA


ATP World No. 5 Novak Djokovic of Serbia captured his third ATP title of the year at the Estoril Open in the beginning of May. Third-seeded Djokovic defeated No. 5 seed Richard Gasquet of France 7:6 (9:7), 0:6, 6:1 in two hours and 20 minutes on Court Central at the Estadio Nacional. It was the youngest final in the 18-year history of the tournament. The 19-year-old Djokovic leads the ATP circuit with a 31:6 match record this year, which includes a 6:1 record on clay courts.



Portrait: Novak Djokovic

Nickname: Nole, Nox, Nokia
Born: 22nd May 1987
Birth Place: Belgrade (Serbia)
Residence: Belgrade (Serbia)
Height: 190 cm
Weight: 75 kg
Plays: Right hand (Backhand - with both hands)
Started playing tennis when he was: 4
Status: Professional since 2003
Racquet: Wilson
Sports Wear: Adidas
Current Coach: Marian Vajda

Novak Djokovic began playing at age four and made his pro debut at 16. Father, Srdjan and mother, Dijana own a pizzeria and pancake restaurant on a mountain in Serbia for last 15 years. Father, uncle and aunt were all professional skiers and his father was also an excellent soccer player. His father wanted him to be a soccer player or skier but excelled in tennis at an early age. Credits his family as inspiration for giving him so much support and says he wouldn't be able to be where he is without their help. Younger brothers Marko and Djordje are both in school and play tennis. Idol growing up was Pete Sampras. At age 12, attended Niki Pilic Academy in Munich and practiced there before returning to Belgrade. Nole speaks Serbian, German and English. Favorite surface is hard courts but considers himself an all around player. Best shot is backhand down the line. As a junior, advanced to Australian Open junior singles and doubles SF (with Jenkins) in 2004. Coached by Marian Vajda and fitness trainer Salvador Sosa.