Strict family man Djokovic: Why his kids don't get cell phones

At Wimbledon, one of the most prestigious tennis tournaments in the world, Novak Djokovic, the Serbian tennis star, made headlines not just for his potential match performances but for a lighthearted moment involving a ball girl during the tournament's opening days. The incident occurred as Djokovic prepared for his first-round match against Chinese player Wu Yibing on Monday. While the specifics of the interaction were not detailed in reports, it was noted that Djokovic engaged in a playful exchange with the young ball girl, showcasing a more relaxed side of the usually composed athlete. This brief moment of levity stood out amid the high-stakes environment of one of the grand slam events.

The event took place during the All England Championships, which began on June 28, 2026. Djokovic, who had already secured four Grand Slam titles, was aiming for his eighth championship at Wimbledon, potentially closing the gap with former record holder Roger Federer. His first match was scheduled against Wu Yibing, and the anticipation surrounding this encounter added to the significance of the day. However, beyond the competitive aspect, Djokovic’s personal life and parenting choices were also under scrutiny, particularly regarding his stance on technology use among children.

Djokovic has long been vocal about his strict approach to managing his children’s exposure to smartphones. He explained that he and his wife, Jelena, believe that screen time can be harmful before a certain age. Their son, Stefan, aged 11, and daughter, Tara, 8, currently do not have their own smartphones. Djokovic emphasized the importance of controlling digital access for young children, acknowledging the challenges posed by the ever-evolving technological landscape. “It’s not easy,” he admitted, highlighting the need to balance protection with fulfilling basic needs while ensuring that children remain shielded from excessive screen exposure.

This perspective aligns with broader discussions around child development and technology use, where experts often debate the appropriate age for introducing smartphones. Djokovic’s views reflect a growing concern among parents and educators about the impact of early smartphone usage on cognitive and social development. His comments came as part of a larger conversation about parental responsibility in the digital age, especially within the context of elite sports families.

Beyond the topic of technology, Djokovic’s presence at Wimbledon also brought attention to other developments in the tennis world. For instance, Austria’s Lilli Tagger, an 18-year-old tennis player from East Tyrol, made her debut at Wimbledon, marking a significant milestone in her career. Meanwhile, other notable players such as Anastasia Potapova and Sebastian Ofner also participated in the tournament, adding to its global appeal. Additionally, there were updates on other tennis-related matters, including the return of American icon Chris Evert, who had to withdraw due to a recurrence of ovarian cancer, and the suspension of Czech player Marketa Vondrousova for refusing a doping test.

As the tournament progressed, Djokovic’s performance would be closely watched, both for his potential to break records and for how he balances his professional ambitions with his family values. His approach to parenting, particularly regarding technology, continues to resonate with many parents navigating similar decisions. With each match and public appearance, Djokovic reinforces his image not just as a top-tier athlete but also as a thoughtful father committed to shaping his children’s future in a rapidly changing world. As the competition unfolds, all eyes will remain on whether Djokovic can achieve his goals on the court while maintaining the principles he holds dear off it.