5 MINUTES AGO 🔥 World No.1 tennis player Novak Djokovic sparked controversy after announcing he will not take part in Tennis’s “Pride Night,” stating: “This sport should focus solely on performance on the course, not on political issues or social movements.”
In a statement that immediately divided the tennis world, Novak Djokovic, the current World No.1 and one of the most successful players in the history of the sport, declared that he would not be attending or supporting the upcoming “Pride Night” event scheduled to take place during next week’s major tournament. His reasoning, he said, was rooted in his belief that tennis — and sport in general — should remain neutral territory, focusing solely on athletic performance rather than being involved in social or political causes.
Djokovic’s comments came during a post-match interview after his straight-sets victory in Vienna. When asked if he would join other players who had confirmed participation in “Pride Night,” the Serbian champion replied: “I have great respect for everyone and their personal choices, but I believe sports should be about skill, discipline, and competition. Once you start mixing it with politics or social movements, you lose the essence of what sport is supposed to represent.”
Within minutes, social media exploded. Supporters praised Djokovic for his honesty and courage to speak his mind in an era where public figures often fear backlash. “He’s standing for the purity of sports,” wrote one fan on X (formerly Twitter). “Finally someone who dares to separate politics from tennis.” On the other hand, critics accused him of insensitivity and a lack of solidarity with marginalized communities. “Neutrality in moments of inequality is not neutrality — it’s taking a side,” responded tennis journalist Ben Rothenberg in a post that quickly went viral.
The ATP and WTA have not officially commented on Djokovic’s decision, but insiders report that several tournament organizers are “disappointed” by his stance. Many of his colleagues, including top-ranked female players, have shown visible support for the Pride movement and have emphasized inclusivity within tennis as a key value of the modern game.
Despite the storm, Djokovic appeared calm and composed in the press conference that followed. “I am not against anyone. I simply think the court is where we compete, not where we campaign. I’ve always respected diversity and equality, but I don’t believe mandatory participation in such events is the right approach,” he said, reiterating that his withdrawal was based on principle, not prejudice.
His decision, however, reignited a long-standing debate in sports: should athletes use their platforms to advocate for social causes, or should they focus solely on their professions? The question has divided fans and experts alike, echoing similar controversies involving other high-profile athletes in recent years.
As the tennis world prepares for Pride Night without its biggest star, the discussion shows no signs of fading. Djokovic’s statement may have alienated some, but it has also resonated deeply with those who share his belief that sports should remain an apolitical arena. Whether one views his stance as brave or misguided, one thing is certain — Novak Djokovic has once again proven that his influence extends far beyond the boundaries of the tennis court.
