Jelena-Gencic-Obituary

Jelena Gencic

Obituary

BELGRADE, Serbia (AP) — Jelena Gencic, who was Novak Djokovic's first coach, has died. She was 76.

Serbia's Tennis Federation says Gencic died on Saturday. The cause of death was not given.

Gencic, who represented Yugoslavia at tennis and handball, picked Djokovic as an exceptional talent when he attended her tennis camp in Serbia at age six. She coached him for five years.

"I asked him what he wants to become when he grows up," Gencic told The Associated Press. "Without hesitation, he said: 'The No. 1 player in the world.'"

The top-ranked Djokovic found about Gencic's death after his third-round win at the French Open in Paris.

Djokovic was upset by the news, not able to attend a news conference, and apologized to the media in a statement released by Open organizers.

Media commentator Gencic also coached former Yugoslav and Serbian women tennis teams and played a role in advising Yugoslav and U.S. tennis great Monica Seles.


Copyright © 2013 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

I just heard of your wonderful dedication to tennis and saddened by the news of your departure last year. you shall always be remembered and loved in all our hearts . Desmond Lee (Singapore)

R.I.P.
I was so close to my first tennis coach, he died in the early 80's and I still think of him every day! So, I can relate, unfortunately. She must have been one heck of a woman!
My deepest condolences.

Vjecnaja pamjat i hvala vam sto ste nesebicno davali sebe.
May your memory be eternal. Thank you Ms. Gencic for Serbian most famous players Novak Djokovic & Monica Seles, and thank you for a wonderful TV shows. I grew up with them.

RIP..My heartfelt condolences to your family..
Hallie - Singapore

Courtesy of your chosen career, you gave advice, inspiration and vigor to some of the young tennis talents in your home country. Some of whom have grown to become notable tennis stars. In their hearts, you wrote your name in gold, though we never met and can never meet again as far as humanity is concerned, i know that you are smiling to heaven and may i lead a life worthy of heaven so that i can meet you there.
Pmania.

MAY YOU BE COMFORTED BY THE GOD OF ALL COMFORT.MY YOU BE UPBUILT BY THE WORDS THAT COMES FROM HIS WORD THE BIBLE.LEAN ON HIM IN THIS MOST CRITICAL TIME....~~~~~~G

As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.