Sad news: Novak Djokovic's former coach has passed away

Photo: Marko Metlas

Novak Djokovic's and national team former coach Jovan Lilic died today in Belgrade.

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The Tennis Federation of Serbia (TSS) confirmed the sad news of his passing, highlighting his importance as a prominent coach and tennis worker. Lilic was known for his cheerful nature and the ability to brighten the day of others with a smile. His death at the age of 60 after a long and serious illness creates a great void in the world of sports.

"Jovan is survived by generations of tennis players whom he led as a personal and club coach. He was the national team coach in the U18 category, as well as the coach of the Davis Cup team of Serbia. His contribution to the development of tennis in Serbia cannot be overestimated," the TSS said in a statement.

Lilic won numerous medals at European championships for younger categories and was awarded for his work. As the coach of the Davis Cup team of Serbia, he won the trophy, and was also part of the national team at the Olympics in Beijing in 2008, when Djokovic won bronze.

The Tennis Federation of Serbia expressed its condolences to the Lilic family and highlighted his importance in the development of Serbian tennis.

"Our sympathies are with the Lilic family. The details regarding the funeral will be announced later," added the TSS.

(Telegraf.rs)