5 Surprising Facts About Jelena Djokovic: The Powerhouse Wife Who Saved Novak's Career

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Jelena Djokovic is far more than just the wife of the world's most decorated male tennis player, Novak Djokovic. As of December 21, 2025, she stands as a formidable businesswoman, a dedicated philanthropist, and a key strategic partner in her husband's unprecedented career. She is the Global CEO and co-founder of the Novak Djokovic Foundation (NDF), a role that has cemented her status as a global advocate for early childhood education and a force for positive change in Serbia.

Her influence extends beyond charity and business; recent reports from the US Open 2025 highlighted her unwavering support, with Novak publicly sharing an emotional message about her importance to his continued success. It was Jelena who, years ago, convinced the tennis star not to retire—a decision that has since paid off with multiple Grand Slam titles. This article delves into the updated profile of Jelena Djokovic, exploring her journey from high school sweetheart to a modern-day power couple's visionary leader.

Jelena Djokovic: Complete Biographical Profile

Jelena Djokovic, born Jelena Ristić, is a Serbian entrepreneur and humanitarian who has been a constant presence and stabilizing force in Novak Djokovic's life since their teenage years. Her background is one of academic rigor and business acumen, which she has channeled into running one of the most impactful foundations in the Balkans.

  • Full Name: Jelena Djokovic (née Ristić)
  • Born: June 17, 1986
  • Birthplace: Belgrade, Serbia (then Yugoslavia)
  • Parents: Miomir Ristić and Vera Ristić
  • Sibling: Older sister, Marija Ristić
  • Marital Status: Married (since July 10, 2014)
  • Spouse: Novak Djokovic
  • Children: Two (a son, Stefan, and a daughter, Tara)
  • Education: Graduated from a high school in Belgrade, Serbia. She later earned a degree in economics and management from Bocconi University in Milan, Italy.
  • Primary Role: Global CEO and co-founder of the Novak Djokovic Foundation (NDF).
  • Other Ventures: She is also a successful businesswoman and has managed her own digital media and marketing company.

The Global CEO: Driving the Novak Djokovic Foundation's Mission

Jelena's professional identity is intrinsically linked to the Novak Djokovic Foundation (NDF), where she serves as the Global CEO. Her work has transformed the organization from a small charity into a globally recognized philanthropic entity focused on a singular, powerful mission: early childhood education (ECE).

The foundation operates on the belief that investing in a child's early years is the most effective way to break the cycle of poverty and empower communities. Under Jelena's leadership, the NDF has secured significant, high-profile collaborations. One of their flagship initiatives is the "Inclusive Early Childhood Education and Care" project. This is a massive joint effort involving the NDF, the World Bank, and the Serbian Ministry of Education, Science and Technological Development.

Her vision extends to tangible community development, including various "School Builds" projects across Serbia, which aim to provide safe, stimulating learning environments for children in underserved areas. Furthermore, the foundation gives grants to various local educational initiatives, ensuring a broad and sustainable impact. The NDF's influence is so broad that they even partnered with the ATP Tour for the inauguration of a new tennis court in Belgrade, linking sports achievement with educational outreach.

Jelena's dedication to this mission is a testament to her deep-seated desire to be a "curious soul who loves life" and a desire to challenge the world for the better, as she states on the foundation's website.

The Wellness Guru: Jelena's Personal Philosophy and Influence

Beyond her corporate and philanthropic roles, Jelena Djokovic is a prominent figure in the world of personal development and holistic wellness. This focus is not merely a hobby but a "personal philosophy" that she calls "Be Unique." This ethos is deeply integrated into the couple's lifestyle and is often cited as a cornerstone of Novak's incredible longevity and success on the ATP Tour.

The Djokovic family's commitment to clean nutrition, breathwork, and meditation is well-documented, with Jelena being a key proponent and practitioner of these routines. She is an open-minded individual with a "never-satiating hunger for knowledge," constantly seeking out new information and practices to enhance well-being. This shared philosophy creates a harmonious environment that supports Novak's demanding career.

Her influence is not subtle; she has publicly come to her husband's defense during controversial moments, such as the widely discussed "secret drink" incident, showcasing her role as his fiercest advocate. Moreover, her own intellectual pursuits are evident, with Novak mentioning that he often dips into her upcoming book, further solidifying her status as a thought leader in the wellness sphere.

Her ability to maintain a strong, supportive marriage while managing a major non-profit, raising two children (Stefan and Tara), and pursuing her own intellectual growth makes her a unique and powerful entity in the world of professional sports partners. The Djokovics' enduring relationship, which started in high school, is a partnership built on shared values, mutual respect, and a collective commitment to excellence and humanitarianism.

novak djokovic wife
novak djokovic wife

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