In a world filled with sports dramas and superstar lifestyles, sometimes it’s the simplest acts of kindness that remind us what true greatness means.
This week, tennis legend Novak Djokovic moved the world not with his performance on the court, but with a deeply personal gesture that has touched millions of people around the world.
During a brief hiatus from the ATP Tour, Djokovic visited his hometown of Belgrade and decided to stop by his old elementary school—the same modest public school where he first picked up a tennis racket on the backyard asphalt court. What he didn’t expect was to run into a familiar face still there: Mr. Zoran Petrovic, the school custodian who has worked there for more than five decades.
At 79, Petrovic — affectionately called “Čika Zoran” (Uncle Zoran) by generations of students — was still sweeping hallways, fixing pipes, and caring for the building with the same dedication he had shown since 1970.
“When I saw him, I couldn’t believe it,” Djokovic told reporters. “He was one of the first to believe in me when I was a kid. He always let me stay longer practicing, even if it meant more work for him.”
Emotional, Djokovic hugged Mr. Zoran, who witnesses said was moved to tears at the sight of the now-famous tennis player who was once his student.
But the meeting didn’t end there.
In a private ceremony at the school, Djokovic announced that he would cover all of Mr. Zoran’s living expenses for life, including medical care and a monthly pension, so he could finally retire with dignity and peace of mind.
“This man gave us so much. He deserves to rest. He shouldn’t be cleaning floors at almost 80 years old,” said a visibly emotional Djokovic. “I owe him more than I can express.”
The moment was captured on video and quickly went viral, with thousands of people praising Djokovic not only for his sporting achievements, but also for his humility and generosity.
According to local media, Mr. Zoran, a widower with no children, had continued working out of necessity, living on a modest salary and without asking for help.
“I never imagined Novak would remember me,” Mr. Zoran said in an interview. “He was a good kid—calm, focused, always polite. I’m proud of him, but even more proud of the man he’s become.”
Social media was filled with messages of admiration, with many calling him a “national treasure.”
Even ATP President Andrea Gaudenzi commented on the event:
“This is what a true legacy means. Beyond trophies and rankings, Novak has shown us what it means to lead with compassion.”
Djokovic, currently world number two, is known for his philanthropic work through the Novak Djokovic Foundation, which focuses on children’s education. But this personal and spontaneous gesture added a new dimension to his public image.
“Sometimes we chase success and forget those who helped us take our first steps,” Novak reflected. “Today I remembered that no triumph is greater than giving back.”
As Mr. Zoran begins his well-deserved retirement, one thing is clear: this emotional reunion between a tennis superstar and a humble janitor has touched hearts around the world.
