Tennis superstar Novak Djokovic met privately with Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis in Athens this weekend amid growing and widely reported speculation that the world’s top player is planning a permanent relocation to the Greek capital with his family.
The high-profile dinner has fueled claims that a major move is underway.
Mr. Djokovic, who has been in the country for several days, dined with Mr. Mitsotakis on Friday evening at Papadakis, a popular restaurant in Kolonaki.
While their spouses were not present, multiple Greek media outlets are reporting that the meeting was more than a friendly gathering, indicating it may have served to finalize Mr. Djokovic's potential move to Greece.
Sources cited in these reports suggest the 24-time Grand Slam winner is actively investigating conditions for a permanent move to Athens.
The decision could be driven by lifestyle preferences, the pursuit of suitable English-speaking education for his children, Stefan and Tara, or even financial considerations, including the potential use of Greece’s Golden Visa program.
Videos circulating earlier this week showed Mr. Djokovic and his wife, Jelena, scouting educational institutions in the upscale northern suburbs of Athens, signaling their serious intent. Some reports even claim Mr. Djokovic received a "green light" from Mr. Mitsotakis during their dinner.
Mr. Djokovic, often nicknamed "The Joker," has long admitted his affection for Greece, having vacationed in the country numerous times and openly expressed his admiration for Greek philosophy, cuisine, and way of life.
His visit highlights Greece’s increasing appeal to high-profile international figures seeking a European base, and his presence highlights a potential informal diplomatic and cultural exchange.
Reports suggest Mr. Djokovic and his family plan to settle permanently in Athens after the U.S. Open later this year, as he continues his search for a suitable home in the capital.