The death of Nikola Pilic, Novak Djokovic's former coach, has deeply shaken everyone who knew this tennis legend. Many famous faces attended yesterday’s funeral of the Yugoslav tennis player, among them his student Novak Djokovic.
Immediately after the news of Nikola Pilic's death, Novak Djokovic showed all his emotions, managing only to say thank you for his former coach’s guidance and character.
However, at yesterday's funeral, Novak Djokovic showed how important Nikola was to his career and what an impact he had on him, but also on other tennis players. In an emotional message in the book of condolences, Novak Djokovic admitted that his hands were shaking, thanking Pilic for everything.
"Mr. Niko, my hand is shaking as I write this from the amount of love and respect I feel for you. Thank you for every moment we spent together, for every word spoken, every glance, every hug. Rest in peace, our dear…
Novak."
Novak Djokovic's message
Novak Djokovic later emphasized that Pilic’s character and work will live on in all those who knew him and that throughout his career he will praise his successes.
Nikola Pilic was not only a mentor to Novak Djokovic, but also to many famous tennis players who mostly came from the former Yugoslavia.
Pilic, in addition to his playing career, was also an important figure in the coaching world and a man who helped many advance in their careers.
“We are essentially his students, his followers, his legacy. As we just said, he will live – forever. As long as we are alive, we will celebrate his name and everything he has done for tennis. Both in Croatia, and here in Serbia, in Europe, worldwide… so, thank you, Niko, and to your health…,” said Djokovic.
Among those present at the funeral were Marin Cilic, Ivan Dodig, Boris Becker, and many other figures from the world of tennis. This speaks volumes about Nikola Pilic's importance in the world of tennis.
