On March 25, 2025, the tennis world was once again in turmoil, this time not because of a match, but because of a shocking statement by Srdjan Djokovic, the father of Serbian superstar Novak Djokovic. In an interview with the Serbian newspaper Blic, Srdjan dropped a verbal bombshell that further strained the already strained relationship between his son and Roger Federer, the Swiss tennis idol. With just eight succinct words—”Federer treated Novak like dirt”—he triggered a wave of outrage, surprise, and heated debate that divided the tennis community. The statement, which appears to stem from years of silent resentment, left fans and pundits alike speechless.

Srdjan Djokovic is known for his outspoken and often controversial comments, but this time he crossed a line that even his critics didn’t expect. The interview came shortly after Novak’s recent triumph in Miami, where he won his seventh title and surpassed Federer’s record for most Masters 1000 titles. While Novak himself remains publicly reserved when it comes to his rivalry with Federer, his father seems to have no qualms about reopening old wounds. “Roger never respected my son,” Srdjan continued. “He treated him like a nobody, even though Novak proved he was better.”

The allegation apparently refers to the long-standing rivalry between Djokovic and Federer, which spans 50 encounters, of which Djokovic won 27. Matches like the 2019 Wimbledon final, when Djokovic defeated Federer in an epic five-set thriller, fending off two match points, are particularly memorable. At the time, it was reported that Federer appeared cool and distant after the match, which Srdjan now interprets as evidence of a deeper dislike. “He couldn’t stand the fact that Novak overtook him,” he said, adding, “His arrogance only made Novak stronger.”

The reaction on social media was explosive. Federer fans vehemently defended their hero, calling Srdjan’s words “ridiculous” and “undignified.” “Roger is a gentleman, he always treated Novak fairly,” wrote one user on X. Others pointed out that Federer often spoke highly of Djokovic in interviews, such as when he called him “one of the greatest of all time” in 2023. But Djokovic supporters saw Srdjan’s statement as confirmation of what they had long suspected: that Federer and his camp never gave Novak the recognition he deserved. “Roger always underestimated Novak, and now he’s paying the price,” one fan commented triumphantly.

Experts are divided over the motives behind Srdjan’s statement. Boris Becker, who used to coach Djokovic, told Eurosport : “Srdjan is exaggerating, but there is a kernel of truth there. Federer never really accepted Novak as an equal.” Others, such as Swiss journalist René Stauffer, dismissed the claim: “Roger respected Novak, even if he didn’t like him. That’s tennis – not friendship.” Indeed, Federer has been critical of Djokovic’s unconventional style and dominance in the past, for example when he complained about the loud support of Djokovic’s fans in 2019. But “treated like dirt”? That seems like an exaggeration that reflects Srdjan’s emotions rather than reality.

The story has its roots in the early days of Djokovic’s career. When Federer and Rafael Nadal dominated the tennis world, Djokovic was often seen as an underdog, polarizing with his aggressive play and uncompromising attitude. Srdjan has repeatedly claimed that his son was deliberately kept down by the tennis elite—led by Federer. “They didn’t want him at the top, but he beat them all,” he said in the interview. For him, Federer’s behavior is a personal affront that goes beyond mere sporting rivalry.

Novak himself has not yet commented on his father’s statements, which is typical of him. He has often downplayed Srdjan’s outbursts in the past, such as when he called Nadal and Federer “conceited” in 2020. But the tension between him and Federer remains palpable. Their recent encounters, such as the 2020 Australian Open, were characterized by a frosty atmosphere, and Federer has sought little contact with Djokovic since his retirement in 2022—in contrast to his close friendship with Nadal.

The tennis world is now wondering whether Federer will respond to this provocation. The Swiss, who has focused on charity work and his family since his retirement, is known for his reluctance to engage in public controversy. But Srdjan’s words could set him off, especially since they attack his reputation as a fair sportsman. For Djokovic fans, the matter is clear: Srdjan has spoken out loud what many are thinking. For Federer’s supporters, it is further proof of the “disrespect” of the Djokovic camp. While the debate rages, one thing remains certain: this rivalry is as alive as ever, even years after Federer’s retirement.