Novak Djokovic's son melts hearts on Centre Court as violin celebration explained
Novak wasn't the only Djokovic entertaining crowds on Centre Court on Saturday.
Novak Djokovic might not have always endeared himself to the Wimbledon crowds, but it seems his children have already warmed hearts at SW19. The 37-year-old, who was infamously jeered on Centre Court during his epic 2019 final with Roger Federer, enjoyed a vastly different reception yesterday after his four-set win over Alexei Popyrin.
The Serbian remained on track for an eighth Wimbledon title after coming from behind to beat the Australian 4-6 6-3 6-4 7-6 and reach the last-16.
And it was during what proved a decisive fourth-set tie-break that his nine-year-old son, Stefan, briefly stole the show.
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Djokovic brilliantly executed an overhead smash en route to taking it 7-3, prompting applause from an appreciative crowd. But Stefan wasn’t about to settle for mild-mannered clapping, leaping out of the seat and imitating the shot with his hands.
His actions had those seated around him smiling, as well as BBC commentator Andrew Cotter. “That’s how dad does it,” said the Scot, laughing as he spoke.
But post-match, Djokovic then ensured that media attention switched to his six-year-old daughter, Tara. After converting match point, he appeared to celebrate by mimicking playing a violin, with spectators initially unsure why.
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However, he later clarified to reporters that he was paying tribute to his youngest child. “The celebration was for Tara,” he said. “She’s played the violin for a couple of months now.”
Djokovic hasn’t been the only star to unleash a special celebration at SW19 this week. Following his five-set win over Frances Tiafoe on Friday, Carlos Alcaraz posed at the net in the same manner that England star Jude Bellingham has marked his goals for his country and Real Madrid this season.
And the 23-time Grand Slam champion revealed he’s also an admirer of the midfielder’s trademark pose. In fact, it seems he keeps a close eye on how the elite in all sports express joy.
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"I like celebrations by Bolt, CR7's ‘Sui’, Agassi with his waving,” he added. “Guga with a heart on Roland Garros, Tsonga, Bellingham with arms spread - a lot of interesting ones"
The next opportunity for Djokovic to celebrate will come on Monday, when he takes on Holger Rune. The No.2 seed has won three of his previous five meetings with the Norwegian.