Novak Djokovic is known for his dominance on the tennis court, but his recent appearance at the Miami Open was marked by a deeply emotional moment. After securing victory in his opening-round match, Djokovic took a marker and wrote the number “16” on the camera lens—a gesture that left many fans and commentators puzzled.
Later, the Serbian tennis star revealed the heartbreaking meaning behind his message, bringing light to a national tragedy that had deeply affected him.
A Tribute to the Victims
In his post-match interview, a visibly emotional Djokovic explained that the number “16” was a tribute to the 16 victims of a tragic incident in Serbia. The catastrophe, which took place in October 2024, involved a roof collapse at the Novi Sad station, leading to the loss of 16 lives.
Initially, 15 people had perished, but just a day before Djokovic’s match, the death toll tragically rose to 16. This prompted him to use his platform at the Miami Open to honor those who lost their lives.
“I was paying tribute to the 16 victims of a tragedy in our country. It happened early in October last year, and there were 15 victims. Unfortunately, the 16th happened yesterday. It’s one of the biggest tragedies in our modern history,” Djokovic said, his voice filled with sorrow.
Djokovic’s Deep Connection to Serbia
This is not the first time Djokovic has used his platform to speak out on issues affecting his homeland. The 22-time Grand Slam champion has always been vocal about his love for Serbia, frequently addressing social, political, and humanitarian issues. His tribute at the Miami Open was yet another reflection of his unwavering support for his country.
Fans across the world praised his heartfelt gesture, with many applauding the way he consistently shows compassion and solidarity in times of crisis.
A Strong Return to Miami Open
While emotions were high off the court, Djokovic was all business on it. He made a stunning return to the Miami Open after a four-year absence, dominating his opponent Rinky Hijikata with a 6-0, 7-6(1) victory.
The win marked another historic milestone for Djokovic—his 410th ATP Masters 1000 match victory, tying him with Rafael Nadal for the most in history.
More Than Just a Champion
Novak Djokovic is a tennis legend, but his latest gesture proves he is much more than just a sportsman. His empathy, compassion, and deep connection to his country continue to inspire millions.
As he progresses through the Miami Open, Djokovic carries not only the hopes of his fans but also the memory of those he paid tribute to. This moment will be remembered not just for his brilliance on the court, but for the depth of his humanity.