Serbian tennis icon Novak Djokovic made a political statement at the French Open on Monday, following his first-round win against American Aleksandar Kovacevic. The world number one wrote “Kosovo is the [heart] of Serbia. Stop the violence” in Serbian on a TV camera lens, using a heart symbol to convey his message. The statement was broadcast on the large screen at Court Philippe Chatrier.
Tensions have escalated in Kosovo over the past week after ethnically Albanian mayors took office in the majority Kosovo Serb area of northern Kosovo. The move followed elections in April, which were boycotted by Kosovo Serbs. Clashes between protestors and NATO’s peacekeeping mission in Kosovo have left at least 34 soldiers injured.
During a press conference, Djokovic further explained his actions: “This is the least I could have done. I feel the responsibility as a public figure…to give support.” The tennis star, whose father was born in Kosovo, added that he felt compelled to back “our people and the entirety of Serbia” in times of crisis.
Djokovic’s stance aligns with that of the Serbian government, which has not recognized Kosovo’s independence and still considers it part of Serbian territory. In response to the recent unrest, NATO’s Kosovo Force (KFOR) has increased its presence in the northern region.
Italian defense authorities reported that KFOR soldiers were injured by protestors throwing Molotov cocktails, firecrackers, and stones. Djokovic told Reuters that he had not been contacted by French Open officials regarding his message, a photo of which he also posted on Instagram.
The 36-year-old athlete clarified his position, stating he is “against wars, violence and any kind of conflict.” Djokovic, who experienced NATO’s 78-day bombing campaign in Belgrade during his childhood, said the situation in Kosovo represents “a precedent in international law.”
Djokovic is currently vying for his 23rd grand slam title at the French Open, which would place him ahead of Rafael Nadal in the men’s all-time rankings.
