𝐃𝐣𝐨𝐤𝐨𝐯𝐢𝐜’𝐬 ‘𝐓𝐞𝐧𝐧𝐢𝐬 𝐃𝐚𝐝’ 𝐍𝐢𝐤𝐨𝐥𝐚 𝐏𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐜 𝐃𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐀𝐭 𝟖𝟕!

𝐃𝐣𝐨𝐤𝐨𝐯𝐢𝐜’𝐬 ‘𝐓𝐞𝐧𝐧𝐢𝐬 𝐃𝐚𝐝’ 𝐍𝐢𝐤𝐨𝐥𝐚 𝐏𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐜 𝐃𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐀𝐭 𝟖𝟕
Reported by David Joshua | Sele Media Africa

Croatian tennis icon Nikola Pilic, a revered coach and former player often credited with shaping the early career of Novak Djokovic, has passed away at the age of 87.

The Croatian Tennis Association announced his death on Tuesday, describing him as one of the greatest contributors to the sport in the region and a mastermind behind several Davis Cup triumphs.

Pilic, who played professionally in the 1960s and 70s, later coached national teams for Germany, Croatia, and Serbia, leading them to multiple Davis Cup victories. He earned the nickname “tennis dad” from Djokovic, who trained at Pilic’s academy in Munich and has often credited him as a foundational influence in his rise to global dominance.

Tennis stars, coaches, and fans across the world have begun paying tribute to Pilic, hailing him as a legend whose legacy will live on in the players he mentored.

About The Author

David Joshua Oliver

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Oliver David Joshua is a seasoned media professional with a passion for impactful journalism and strategic leadership. As the Managing Director and Editor-In-Chief of Sele Media Africa, he oversees the organization’s editorial vision, ensuring high standards of truth, balance, and bold reporting. Known for his sharp editorial eye and commitment to excellence, Oliver plays a key role in shaping the voice of Sele Media Africa across the continent. His leadership continues to drive innovation, credibility, and growth in Africa’s digital media space.

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