Novak Djokovic has dismissed speculation that his post-match celebration at Wimbledon is politically motivated, insisting it is simply a playful gesture shared with his children.

The 38-year-old Serb has attracted attention at this year’s Championships with an unusual dance routine performed on court following his victories. After defeating British wildcard Dan Evans in straight sets in the second round on Thursday, Djokovic blew kisses to the crowd and then turned to his player’s box to perform a series of “pumping” gestures — directing his hands towards the ground, to the sides, and above his head.

The same gesture, used after his first-round win over Alexandre Muller, has stirred controversy in Serbia. The action bears resemblance to a movement associated with student protests that erupted in November 2024 following the collapse of a railway station canopy in Novi Sad, which tragically claimed 16 lives.

The phrase “pump it” has since become a rallying cry among protesting students, who accuse the Serbian government of corruption and have organised blockades in schools as part of their campaign.

Djokovic has previously expressed support for the protesting students, once wearing a hoodie that read “Students Are Champions” and dedicating an Australian Open victory to a student injured during the demonstrations.

However, the 24-time Grand Slam champion strongly denied that his Wimbledon routine was connected to any political cause.

“As I mentioned to the Serbian journalists, it’s something between me and my children,” Djokovic told reporters when questioned about the gesture.
“We have a song, it’s called Pump It Up. I don’t know how many of you guys know that. It’s quite an old song. Good rhythm.
So yeah, we’re pumping. We love pumping. We pump after every win. I don’t know the name of the artist.”

To further clarify the nature of the celebration, Djokovic even broke into song at the press conference, singing:

“Don’t you know, pump it up, you got to pump it up — disco song!”

The seven-time Wimbledon champion appeared amused by the speculation, emphasising that the gesture is nothing more than a personal ritual shared with his young family.