Rallies in Zeleno Brdo: Discovering Tennis at Tipsarevic Tennis Academy Olimp
Nestled in the quiet Zeleno Brdo neighborhood of Belgrade, at Vjekoslava Kovača 11, the Tipsarevic Tennis Academy Olimp stands as a beacon for tennis enthusiasts in Serbia's capital. Founded by former ATP World No. 8 Janko Tipsarević, this facility at the renowned Sports Center Olimp boasts nine outdoor courts, embodying the grit and growth of Serbian tennis.
A Neighborhood Pulse Fueled by Djokovic's Shadow
Zeleno Brdo feels like Belgrade's understated green lung, a residential pocket where tree-lined streets give way to the expansive Sports Center Olimp. Here, tennis isn't just a game—it's a cultural inheritance from icons like Novak Djokovic and Ana Ivanovic, who rose from post-war scarcity to global dominance. The academy channels that legacy, drawing locals who arrive by car along the bustling E-75 highway or via public buses snaking through Beograd's suburbs. On weekends, families pedal bikes from nearby apartments, kids clutching rackets, while pros zip in on scooters. The vibe is communal yet ambitious: grunts echo across clay and hard courts as players of all ages chase personal bests under the Balkan sun.
Hitting the Courts: Access, Costs, and the Rhythm of Play
Walk-ons are rare at this high-demand spot; most secure slots through the academy's structured programs or direct inquiries via their site. Expect hourly court rentals around 1,500-2,500 dinars (roughly €13-€21), scaling with coaching add-ons from Tipsarević-certified pros emphasizing biomechanics and mental toughness. Beginners face a welcoming ramp-up: group clinics start gentle, focusing on footwork over firepower, ideal for those new to Serbia's red clay dominance. Courts light up for evening sessions year-round, covered in winter to defy Belgrade's chill, though summer humidity demands early mornings. Seasonal note: spring and fall offer prime conditions, with rain delays rare thanks to quick drainage.
Visitor's Playbook: From Parking to Post-Match Bites
Pin the coordinates 44.7937232, 20.5083694 on your map—ample free parking dots the Olimp complex, safer than downtown scrambles. Safety shines here: well-lit paths, security patrols, and a family-oriented crowd make it newbie-friendly, even after dusk. Weather-wise, pack layers for Belgrade's continental swings—scorching Julys to frosty Januarys—but the covered setup keeps play consistent. Post-rally, refuel at the on-site 'Tipsy Time' restaurant, savoring pljeskavica burgers or fresh salads amid tennis chatter. Venture five minutes out for Zeleno Brdo's kafanas, like local spots brewing strong Turkish coffee, or grab burek from corner bakeries for that authentic Belgrade bite.
Finding Your Rally Partner in Belgrade's Tennis Scene
For newcomers or recent movers scanning for hits at Tipsarevic Olimp, Doyouplay cuts through the noise. Browse free by skill level—3.5 baseliners to 4.5 net-rushers—or preferences like doubles drills or evening lights. Low-stakes 1:1 chat sparks quick connections, no commitments needed, tapping into an active community of expats, locals, and academy regulars. It's the simplest bridge to this vibrant hub, reassuring solo travelers they'll rally within hours, not weeks. Players rave about matching with ATP hopefuls training alongside weekend warriors, turning strangers into doubles partners overnight.
Legacy on Clay: Tipsarević's Vision Takes Root
Janko Tipsarević launched his academy in 2013, transforming Olimp's nine courts into a training ground for ATP stars like Laslo Djere and Dušan Lajović. What began as a passion project in Belgrade's sports oases now mirrors Serbia's tennis renaissance—from pool-side drills in the '90s to world-class facilities today. At QGV5+JJ, Vjekoslava Kovača 11, it's more than courts; it's where ambition meets asphalt, inviting you to join the rally. Lace up—Belgrade's green haven awaits your serve.
