Novak Djoković had called Kosovo the “heart of Serbia” and called for an end to violence. The tennis player is facing considerable criticism.

It is more his statement on Kosovo than his sporting achievements that are currently putting Novak Djoković in the headlines.

The 36-year-old tennis player had called Kosovo the “heart of Serbia” and called for an end to violence. Despite criticism, he later stressed: “I could repeat it, but I will not. Many people disagree, but I am of that opinion.” Djoković’s father was born in Kosovo.

Serbia does not recognise Kosovo’s independence, but considers it part of its own country. At the beginning of the week, 30 NATO soldiers from KFOR troops were injured in clashes with members of the Serb population in northern Kosovo.

Reprimand from French sports minister
Djoković is currently competing in the French Open in Paris. French Sports Minister Amélie Oudéa-Castéra said the statement made by the tennis player was “not appropriate”. Kosovo is calling on the International Olympic Committee to initiate disciplinary proceedings against Djoković for violating the principles of sport and the IOC Charter.