Belgrade – September 15, 2026 -- Former world No. 1 tennis player Jelena Janković has been appointed Global Ambassador for EXPO 2027 Belgrade, becoming the first Serbian figure to hold the role as organizers prepare to host an estimated four million domestic and international visitors.
Janković becomes first Serbian to join Expo's international ambassador roster
The 15-time WTA title winner joins a global ambassador group that already includes Usain Bolt, Jackie Chan and Lin Dan. Janković reached the top of the WTA rankings in 2008, competed in four Olympic Games, reached the US Open final and won the Wimbledon mixed doubles title.
Expo confirms over 140 international participants ahead of 2027 opening
EXPO 2027 Belgrade is scheduled to run from May 15 to August 15, 2027, under the theme "Play for Humanity: Sport and Music for All." Organizers have confirmed participation from more than 140 international entities.
Ambassador appointment ties sport diplomacy to national exposition strategy
Janković said the role marks a shift from representing Serbia abroad to welcoming the world to Belgrade directly. "EXPO 2027 gives us an opportunity to show what Serbia has to offer today: our talent, knowledge, culture, creativity and, above all, our people," she said.