You Changed My Life": Djokovic's Heartbreaking Farewell to His Mentor Nikola Pilić

"Emptiness and sadness overwhelmed me": Upon learning of Nikola Pilić's death, Novak Djokovic published a poignant text describing his former mentor as his "tennis father."

Yesterday, Nikola Pilić, Croatian tennis legend, passed away at the age of 87. A former player (French Open finalist in 1973) and also a coach, Pilić was one of Novak Djokovic's mentors when the latter was just a teenager.

The news obviously saddened the Serbian player, who had won the 2010 Davis Cup under Pilić's guidance. He paid tribute to him in a lengthy text shared on his social media:

"Dear Niko, I learned the sad news today while I was on the court, at the end of my training. A feeling of emptiness and sadness overwhelmed me. I hope you know the importance you had for me in my career and in my life.

Your influence on my personal development and as a tennis player remains indelible.

I have eternal gratitude towards you and your wife Mia for accepting me as your son at the age of 12. My parents and my brothers always considered you a member of my family.

When almost everyone turned their backs on us and our country was devastated by bombings, you and Mia reached out to us. You did everything so that my brothers and I could pursue our dream and practice the sport we love.

Thank you for all those moments I experienced and which will remain engraved in my memory. Beyond the sadness I feel, your personality and the memories of the moments shared with you bring me joy and gratitude.

Your legacy will endure for a long time, and generations will remember your personality and deeds with great admiration.

All your achievements as a player, as a coach and captain are written in golden letters in the history of Balkan sports and world tennis. For me, the most important thing is to be able to proudly call you: 'Mr. Niko, my tennis father.' Rest in peace.