A wave of shock swept through the tennis world on Tuesday following the passing of Croatian legend Nikola Pilic at 86. Revered for his accomplishments both as a player and a coach, Pilic left an indelible legacy within the sport. He played a pivotal role in shaping the career of 24-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic, who fondly called him his ‘tennis dad.’

Pilic’s passing deeply affected Djokovic, who held him in profound regard and honored the legend with a heartfelt, lengthy tribute online.

What Did Novak Djokovic Say After the Unfortunate Passing of Nikola Pilic?

Pilic turned professional in 1968 and went on to build a career that drew widespread admiration. The Croatian captured nine singles and six doubles titles, and while he came close to clinching a Grand Slam on several occasions, the ultimate prize eluded him.

After an illustrious playing career spanning nearly two decades, Pilic stepped away from competition but soon made his mark as a coach and guided three nations, Germany, Croatia, and Serbia, to Davis Cup glory.

Djokovic was among Pilic’s closest protégés, joining his academy in Germany at 12 years old. Grateful for the opportunity, the Serbian maestro once revealed that Pilic made an exception by accepting him despite his rule of only taking players over 14. Beyond training, their relationship flourished off the court as they regularly exchanged ideas and advice, gradually forging a deep bond in which Pilic became a guiding parental figure for Djokovic.

The Croatian Tennis Association announced Pilic’s passing on Monday, which prompted Djokovic to share an emotional message on Instagram.

“I received some sad news today while I was in the field finishing my training. A feeling of emptiness and sadness has taken over me. I hope you felt how much you meant to me in your career and life. Your influence on my development as a man and tennis player remains indelible. I am eternally grateful to you and your lovely wife Mia for accepting me as your own son when I was 12,” he wrote.

Djokovic further explained how Pilic and his wife, Mia, supported him and his brothers through the challenges in their country, allowing them to pursue their dream and the sport they loved most. He followed this revelation with a heartfelt message of gratitude.

“Thank you for all the moments I experienced in my head today and which will remain engraved in my memory as long as I live. In addition to the sadness and mixed emotions I feel, your character and memories of shared moments brings joy and gratitude to my heart,” he wrote.

The 24-time Grand Slam champion further paid tribute to Pilic’s enduring legacy, honoring his remarkable achievements as both player and coach.

“Your legacy will last for a long time, and generations will look back on your character and deeds with great admiration. All your achievements as a player, coach and coach have been written in golden letters in the books of sports history of the Balkans and world tennis. For me, however, the most important thing is that I can proudly call you “Sjor Niko, my tennis Father”. May you rest in peace,” he added.

There is little doubt that Pilic’s legacy had a profound impact, prompting an outpouring of tributes from the tennis fraternity. Nine-time Grand Slam champion and legend Monica Seles honored him with a heartfelt Instagram story, while the Davis Cup’s official page also paid tribute to Pilic.