In a world that often places value on superficial perfection, a newborn baby boy in Belgrade, Serbia, was abandoned by his wealthy biological family for a reason that has sparked both outrage and heartbreak — a dark birthmark on his face. The child, left without a name or family, was described by hospital staff as healthy and beautiful, except for a large, dark patch stretching across his left cheek and temple.

But what began as a story of cruelty and rejection has turned into one of hope, redemption, and the unexpected kindness of tennis legend Novak Djokovic.

The Heartbreaking Beginning

The baby, now named Luka, was born in a private hospital earlier this year. According to medical staff, the parents — members of a powerful and affluent Serbian family — reacted coldly upon seeing the infant’s birthmark. “They refused to hold him,” said one nurse. “The mother turned away. The father said something about shame and appearance. Within 24 hours, they left without him.”

Doctors tried to reason with the family, assuring them the mark was harmless and could fade or be treated cosmetically later in life. But the family refused to acknowledge the child again, leaving Luka behind like a forgotten belonging.

The story might have ended there — just another tragedy hidden behind closed doors — if not for a single act of compassion that captured global attention.

Novak Djokovic Steps In

News of the baby’s abandonment quickly circulated in local media and on social networks. It reached the ears of Novak Djokovic, the world-renowned tennis champion known not only for his athletic brilliance but for his deep ties to Serbia and his ongoing humanitarian work through the Novak Djokovic Foundation.

Djokovic, who was in Europe preparing for the upcoming Grand Slam season, reportedly contacted the hospital directly. “He was shocked and heartbroken,” said an insider at the Novak Djokovic Foundation. “He asked for details and wanted to know how he could help. Within days, he arranged a personal visit.”

When Djokovic arrived at the hospital, staff were moved to tears. He held the baby in his arms, gently cradling Luka and whispering words of comfort. “This child is perfect,” he was heard saying. “He is not to be hidden or ashamed of. He is a miracle.”

A New Chapter Begins

Moved by the injustice and determined to give the child a future, Djokovic offered full financial support for Luka’s medical needs and education — but he went even further. With his wife Jelena, Djokovic pledged to help find the baby a loving family and, if necessary, adopt Luka himself.

“Every child deserves to be loved unconditionally,” Jelena Djokovic said in a rare public statement. “No one should be cast aside for the way they look. We are doing everything in our power to ensure Luka grows up surrounded by love, not shame.”

In the weeks following, the Djokovic Foundation coordinated with Serbian child welfare agencies to secure Luka’s custody in a temporary foster home, where he now thrives under attentive care. Medical specialists are assessing Luka’s birthmark and believe with time and treatment, it could fade significantly — but Novak has made it clear: “Even if it doesn’t, it doesn’t matter. Luka’s worth is not skin deep.”

A Message That Echoes Globally

The story has now gone viral, with social media erupting in praise for Djokovic’s compassion. Messages from around the world poured in, with hashtags like #LukaStrong and #DjokovicHero trending globally.

“This isn’t about tennis,” one user posted. “This is about being human. Novak Djokovic didn’t just save a child — he reminded the world what real kindness looks like.”

Philanthropic organizations, children’s rights advocates, and celebrities have lauded Djokovic’s actions, and calls are growing for increased awareness about the stigma surrounding physical differences in children.

Djokovic’s Legacy Beyond the Court

This isn’t the first time Djokovic has used his platform to stand up for vulnerable communities. His foundation has supported thousands of underprivileged children in Serbia and beyond, focusing on education, nutrition, and early development. But Luka’s case, say many, is personal — a rare and emotional intersection of public influence and private compassion.

“This child was discarded like he didn’t matter,” said a pediatrician at the Belgrade hospital. “But now he is a symbol of hope. All because someone saw past a mark and chose to see a soul.”

Looking Ahead

Today, Luka is healthy, smiling, and surrounded by love in his foster home. His future is no longer uncertain, and his story has become a symbol of resilience and humanity. As Djokovic prepares to return to the court, his most meaningful victory may not be in a stadium filled with fans, but in a quiet hospital room where a baby once lay unwanted — now reborn in the arms of compassion.