Tennis superstar Novak Djokovic and his wife, Jelena, have recently been fined €5,000 (£4,167) by the Marbella Council for violating building regulations on their luxury mansion in Sierra Blanca, Marbella. Djokovic, 37, reportedly started unauthorised renovations on the €10 million property, including construction work that did not comply with Andalusian Land Law on property height, number of floors, and minimum boundary distances.
The Marbella Council launched an investigation into Djokovic’s renovations and found that certain completed sections, such as the basement parking area and a porch, did not meet the legal requirements. As a result, Djokovic was first fined €5,000 for failing to make the necessary adjustments within a two-month deadline. Subsequently, he received another €5,000 fine for the same reason, with the possibility of facing up to 12 consecutive fines if the issues are not rectified promptly.
The Djokovic family, including their two children, frequently spends several weeks each year at the luxurious villa, which was acquired in 2020. The mansion offers a lavish setting with nine bedrooms, eight bathrooms, an indoor swimming pool, multiple lounges, a cinema and TV room, a games room, a spa, and a fully equipped gym. The decor of the main rooms reportedly draws inspiration from Mediterranean and Moroccan styles. Djokovic’s property portfolio also includes residences in Belgrade, Monte Carlo, Miami, and New York City.
As Djokovic prepares for his quarter-final match at the Miami Open, where he aims for his seventh Miami title and 100th tour-level trophy, he faces the challenge of balancing his on-court performance with the off-court legal issues. The tennis star admitted to struggling with his form earlier in the 2025 season, following a series of losses, including at Indian Wells. Despite these setbacks, Djokovic remains focused on his quest for success on the court.
The fine imposed on Djokovic by the Marbella Council serves as a reminder of the importance of adhering to building regulations, even for high-profile individuals. It highlights the need for all property owners, regardless of their status, to ensure that their renovations are in compliance with local laws and regulations to avoid facing penalties. Djokovic’s situation underscores the challenges that can arise when navigating legal requirements during property renovations, serving as a cautionary tale for homeowners and celebrities alike.
In the world of professional tennis, Djokovic’s off-court issues add a layer of complexity to his competitive journey, as he seeks to maintain his focus and performance amidst external distractions. Despite the legal fine and construction setbacks, Djokovic’s determination to succeed on the court remains unwavering as he continues to strive for excellence in his sporting career. As the tennis season unfolds, Djokovic’s ability to overcome obstacles, both on and off the court, will be closely watched by fans and critics alike, eager to see how he navigates challenges and pursues victory.