Novak Djokovic's Brother Forced to Evacuate Dubai Residence Following Iranian Drone Attack
Djordje Djokovic, the younger brother of tennis superstar Novak Djokovic, was reportedly compelled to abandon his family home in Dubai over the weekend due to escalating military tensions in the region. The 30-year-old, who resides in an apartment with his wife Saska and their young son Aleksandar, made the decision to vacate the property after an explosion rocked the city centre.
Regional Conflict Prompts Family Relocation
The evacuation follows retaliatory strikes by Iranian forces after Israel and the United States launched an attack on Tehran on Saturday. Several nations, including the United Arab Emirates where Dubai is located, became targets of Iranian drone strikes, leading to a rapid escalation in hostilities. According to reports from Serbian publication Telegraf, Djordje and his wife fled their residence, which is situated in close proximity to the iconic Burj Khalifa skyscraper.
The family is currently reported to be safe, though understandably concerned about the ongoing conflict and its potential impact on their safety and security in the region. Djordje Djokovic has been based in Dubai for some time, leveraging his position in the tennis world while raising his young family in the emirate.
Djordje Djokovic's Background and Career
Like his famous older brother Novak and their sister Marija, Djordje pursued a professional tennis career during his younger years. He achieved a career-high singles ranking of world number 1,463 and reached number 559 in doubles before retiring from competitive play in 2017.
Since stepping away from the court, Djordje has established himself as a successful tennis tournament director. He served in this capacity at the Serbia Open, an ATP 250 event, in both 2021 and 2022. The following year, he oversaw another ATP 250 tournament, the Srpska Open in Banja Luka, before taking on the role of tournament director for the Belgrade Open in 2024.
Most recently, in November 2025, Djordje led the Hellenic Championship in Athens where he watched his eldest brother Novak secure the title against Lorenzo Musetti in a thrilling three-set match.
Family Life and Connections
Djordje Djokovic married model Saska Veselinov in 2022. Veselinov is the niece of Serbian politician Dragan Veselinov, adding a political dimension to the family's connections. The couple welcomed their son Aleksandar two years ago, completing their immediate family unit in Dubai before the recent security concerns forced their relocation.
The situation highlights how global conflicts can impact even those connected to international sports celebrities, with the Djokovic family now facing the practical realities of regional instability despite their privileged position in the tennis world.
