Novak Djokovic is trying to bring back the legendary Sveti Stefan resort
The most decorated tennis player in the history of men’s tennis, Novak Djokovic, is actively working to bring the famous Sveti Stefan resort back to life, as it has been closed since 2021. According to Vijesti, Djokovic discussed the situation with the prime...
The most decorated tennis player in the history of men’s tennis, Novak Djokovic, is actively working to bring the famous Sveti Stefan resort back to life, which has been closed since 2021. As reported by the newspaper Vijesti, Djokovic discussed this situation with Montenegro’s Prime Minister, Milojko Spajić. The main purpose of his visit to Montenegro is to help remove the “lock” from the hotel and complex on the island of Sveti Stefan, which has become a global symbol of luxury.
Novak Djokovic’s role in solving the problem
In an interview, Djokovic noted that he is using his name and influence to find a solution to a problem that has dragged on for several years. He emphasized that this is his personal initiative and that his goal is to “work for the common good of Montenegro.” Djokovic said that he has entered into dialogue with the companies that own the complex, as well as with the authorities, in order to try to find a way out of the current situation.
“I would be very sorry if the Aman brand were to leave Montenegro. I hope that all these meetings we have held will be the first step toward a solution that will be found in the near future,” Djokovic said.
The history of the problem: the closure of Sveti Stefan
Sveti Stefan, which was closed in 2021, has for decades been one of the most exclusive and expensive resorts in the world. Famous for its luxurious beaches and unique architecture, it was a place where the global elite, including politicians and celebrities, отдыхed.
However, the problem arose after it was decided to carry out reconstruction and build a new hotel on the resort grounds, which led to legal disputes between the complex’s owners and the authorities of Montenegro. Another reason for the closure was the use of Kraljičinaplaža (Queen’s Beach), which was closed to the general public and used only by hotel guests and the political elite. When local residents
and forced the authorities to lift the restrictions, conflicts arose that led to international legal proceedings.
Disputes and legal proceedings
After the closure of Sveti Stefan, international arbitration proceedings began and dragged on for several years. In 2022, a lawsuit was filed against Adriatic Properties, which is the leaseholder of the complex. Adriatic Properties, in turn, filed a lawsuit against Sveti Stefan hoteli and the Government of Montenegro, demanding compensation for legal costs, while the Budvanska rivijera group, which is also connected to this situation, supported the state’s side, arguing that all disputes between Montenegrin legal entities should be resolved in local courts.
In January 2025, the Arbitration Court in London issued a ruling, ordering Sveti Stefan hoteli and the Government of Montenegro to pay Adriatic Properties £522,000 (or €620,000) in legal costs related to the arbitration proceedings over the lease contract for the Sveti Stefan resort. In response, the Government of Montenegro filed an appeal with the Court of Appeal, arguing that such disputes should fall exclusively under the jurisdiction of Montenegrin courts, not international arbitration bodies.
The economic situation at Sveti Stefan
The dispute over the lease of the Sveti Stefan resort and Villa Miločer continues, and the opening of the hotel under the Aman brand has been postponed, as the companies cannot reach an agreement on key issues related to the beach and infrastructure. As a result, as Djokovic said, both sides — both the lessor and the lessees — have found themselves in a difficult financial situation. The amount of debt at present stands at several million euros, which is worsening an already tense situation.
Novak Djokovic: a short biography
Novak Djokovic was born on May 22, 1987, in Belgrade, the capital of Serbia, which was then part of Yugoslavia. At present, Djokovic holds Serbian citizenship; however, in 2013 he also received Montenegrin citizenship, as his father is originally from this region. Nevertheless, Serbia remains his primary citizenship.
At present, Novak Djokovic is the most decorated tennis player in the history of men’s tennis. He has set records for the number of Grand Slam titles, winning 24 titles (as of February 2025), which is the highest number among men in tennis history.
Why is Djokovic trying to save the resort?
For Novak Djokovic, Sveti Stefan is not just a beautiful resort. It is the place where he experienced one of the most important moments of his life — his wedding in 2014. The tennis player admits that it saddens him to see the famous place become a symbol of crisis rather than luxury and relaxation. He is convinced that solving the resort’s problem is beneficial not only for Montenegro’s economy, but also for maintaining the country’s reputation on the international stage.
Sveti Stefan: a historical symbol of Montenegro
Sveti Stefan, being a historically significant site, is not only a luxurious resort but also an important cultural and historical asset. The island was inhabited as far back as the Middle Ages and for a long time served as a refuge for local residents, and later became a symbol of wealth and privileged leisure. Today it is a unique place where one can enjoy not only beautiful views and peace, but also immerse oneself in the atmosphere of Montenegro’s history.
The island is first mentioned in historical sources as early as the 12th century. It became known for its unique architecture and location. In the 16th century, a monastery was built there, and in the 17th century it was turned into a fortress for protection against pirates. In the 1950s, the island was transformed into a luxurious resort, and soon became one of the most prestigious places for the leisure of rich and famous people.
Today Sveti Stefan, with its historic buildings and picturesque beaches, is one of Montenegro’s most popular tourist attractions. The resort attracts not only luxury lovers, but also those who appreciate the uniqueness and atmosphere of this place.
The future of Sveti Stefan
We hope that Novak Djokovic’s efforts will lead to a resolution of the disputes, and that the famous resort will once again open its doors to tourists. Sveti Stefan, like other historical sites in Montenegro, plays an important role in the development of tourism and the country’s economy, and its restoration could become an important step toward strengthening Montenegro’s image as a global tourist destination.
