Novak Djokovic’s father caught in a major controversy after unwittingly posing with Russian nationalists

Novak Djokovic's father Srdjan got dragged into a controversy after he posed with Russian fans some of them wearing the Russian war symbol 'Z'.


Novak Djokovic’s father caught in a major controversy after unwittingly posing with Russian nationalists

Novak Djokovic's father with Russian fans

Serbian champion Novak Djokovic is fighting on multiple fronts in the 2023 Australian Open. On one hand, he is battling opponents and a hamstring injury on the courts in Melbourne Park. On the other hand, the 35-year-old is engaged in a dogfight with his perception off-court. 

Since last year’s infamous saga revolving around his detention and deportation, Novak Djokovic could not have a totally smooth ride Down Under. On court, he is fighting like an avenger to undo the wrongs but sensational news off-court is chasing him every minute. 

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The latest drama involves his family now. And it is something no one saw it coming. Djokovic’s father Srdjan posed with a Russian nationalist holding a flag with Vladimir Putin’s face and wearing a controversial ‘Z’ T-shirt at the Australian Open. This has created not a local but international furor with the Ambassador of Ukraine branding it a ‘disgrace’. 

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Related: “Ban all flags next year if you can’t get this right”, Australian Open getting slammed for Russian “invasion” and security failures

Unknowingly Novak Djokovic’s father got dragged into a controversy 

Novak Djokovic with his father

Vasyl Myroshnychenko, the ambassador, was in no mood to mince words. “It’s a full package. Among the Serbian flags, there is a Russian flag, Putin, Z-symbol, or chanting pro-Russian songs. It’s such a disgrace,” he said. 

It is not clear whether Djokovic’s father said anything in support of Russia or they were just a bunch of fans eager to mingle with Senior Djokovic. One thing is clear maybe even unknowingly he has created another headache for his son in his quest for a 10th title in Australia. 

Djokovic is through to the semi-finals after defeating Andrey Rublev in straight sets. In the semifinal, Tommy Paul is his newest opponent waiting to face the wrath of Djokovic. The Serb is in an unforgiving mood and the latest controversy will definitely fuel his anger. 

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