Djokovic looks to Britain

ByEurosport

Published 06/06/2006 at 14:17 GMT

Young Roland Garros quarter finalist Novak Dkokovic could be latest player born outside the UK to apply for a British passport, according to media reports on Tuesday. The 18-year-old Serbian's family have contacted the Lawn Tennis Association about the possibility of moving to Britain.

Earlier this year, the rising young star played a key role in Serbia and Montenegro's Davis Cup victory over Britain in Glasgow, and during the visit his mother spoke to LTA officials about a move involving Djokovic and his two younger tennis playing brothers.

TENNIS 2006 Roland Garros Djokovic 05/06

Image credit: Imago

Djokovic has no ancestral link to Britain - unlike Canadian-born Greg Rusedski whose English mother paved the way for a similar switch of nationalities in 1995 - and would have to qualify for a passport through residency rules.

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"I can't say it's true, and I can't say it's bulls**t," remarked Djokovic, whose best friend on the tour is young British hope Andy Murray.

Djokovic is said to be seeking the move because he would be able to receive better sponsorship and support in Britain than in the Balkans. Added to that, it is thought that a move would benefit the development of his brothers' games.

Any possible move would mean that Djokovic would be able to play for Britain in the Davis Cup, but it is understood that his decision was influenced by the likelihood that Serbia will soon split from Montenegro.

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