The European football team that Novak Djokovic said he was a ‘big fan’ of in 2022

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Novak Djokovic has made no secret of his love for other sports, having named the likes of Michael Jordan and Alberto Tomba as his sporting idols.

Djokovic might not have named a footballer as one of his sporting idols, but he has often put his weight behind the beautiful game.

The 24-time Grand Slam champion sent a message of support to the Serbia team ahead of their match with Denmark at the European Championships in 2024.

As for club football, Djokovic has gone on record as a fervent supporter of one of the biggest teams in Europe.

Novak Djokovic’s love for AC Milan

Djokovic might have always been proud to represent Serbia, but his favourite football team is not in his home country.

The star revealed that he was an AC Milan fan, and he’s often been spotted watching his team at the San Siro.

In an interview with Goal, the Serbian said: “I’m a big fan of Milan, and I’ll always be. For me, football is second only [to] tennis. My father was a professional footballer, and at home we always watch the Rossoneri’s games with great interest.”

Djokovic even forged a strong relationship with one of the most high-profile goalscorers the club ever had.

Djokovic explained: “I am friends with Zlatan Ibrahimovic. We often talked about my situation in Australia. He also supported me publicly, which I really appreciate. I’m a Milan fan, and we hope to win the Scudetto this year.”

Several tennis players have often cited their love for football, with Andy Murray famously an Arsenal supporter and Rafael Nadal an avid Real Madrid fan.

How Novak Djokovic almost joined AC Milan

In 2024, Djokovic’s love for the Italian giant nearly landed him an entirely new role in the sporting world.

According to Football Italia, AC Milan owner Gerry Cardinale was eyeing up Djokovic for a non-playing role with the team.

Cardinale debated bringing in Djokovic as a mental coach following the Serbian’s dizzying success on a tennis court.

Djokovic has often been heralded for his mentality, which saw him oust Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal as the player with the most Grand Slams in history.