At what age did Novak Djokovic begin playing tennis? He began playing tennis at age 4.
According to accounts of his early life, Djokovic’s parents gave him a mini-racket and a soft foam ball when he was four. His father later described the racket and ball as becoming the child’s favourite toy, helping turn casual play into a lasting passion for tennis.
Djokovic’s more formal development came later. At six, he met coach Jelena Genčić at a tennis camp on Mount Kopaonik. Genčić worked with him for six years and helped shape important parts of his technique and competitive mindset. This later coaching age is why some summaries mistakenly report six as the beginning of his tennis journey.
Djokovic began his professional career in 2003 and won his first major championship at the 2008 Australian Open. His early start ultimately led to one of the longest and most successful careers in men’s tennis.