Former world number one Novak Djokovic courted controversy after his political statement at the ongoing French Open. Djokovic, after knocking out America’s Aleksandar Kovacevic 6-3, 6-2, 7-6(1) on Monday, called for peace in Kosovo.
Djokovic’s comment came after the recent violence in Kosovo following elections in April. In northern Kosovo, Serbs form the majority of the population and consider Serbia’s capital Belgrade as their capital also. And that is the reason, they refused to take part in the local elections and a few of them clashed with Kosovo police and Nato-led peacekeepers.
Kosovo declared independence from Serbia in 2008 after the 1988-99 war which resulted in the deaths of at least 10,000 people. Though Kosovo is considered an independent state by the UN, Serbia still considers it a part of the country. Also Read: Stefanos Tsitsipas Vs Roberto Carballes Baena Match Prediction, Head-To-Head, Preview, And Live Stream | French Open
What did Novak Djokovic say about Kosovo after his first-round win at French Open?
After the win, Djokovic signed on the camera by writing: “Kosovo is [heart symbol] Serbia. Stop the violence.” And on Monday, he reposted a photo of his message on his Instagram story.
“I am not a politician and I don’t have the intention to get into political debate. That topic is very sensitive. As a Serb, everything that’s happening in Kosovo hurts me a lot.
“This is the least I could have done. I feel the responsibility as a public figure- doesn’t matter in which field- to give support. Especially as a son of a man born in Kosovo, I feel the need to give my support to them and Serbia. I don’t know what the future brings for Serbian people and for Kosovo, but it’s necessary to show support and demonstrate unity in these kinds of situations.”
Djokovic then said the tournament organizers did not approach him after he wrote the message on the camera and said he is not holding and would do it again because he is against wars, violence, and any kind of conflict of any kind. “I empathize with all people, but the situation with Kosovo is a precedent in international law… I am very sorry for the situation that we are in Kosovo is our hearthstone, our stronghold, our most important monasteries are there.” Also Read: Iga Swiatek Is A Step Above Everyone On Clay, But Aryna Sabalenka And Elena Rybakina Can Blow Her Off: John McEnroe
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