Novak Djokovic has thanked Sinisa Mihajlovic for his impact on Serbian sport following the 53-year-old's death.

Mihajlovic passed away this week following a battle with leukaemia.

He was diagnosed with the illness in 2019, but kept on coaching in Serie A until as recently as September, when he was dismissed by Bologna.

Mihajlovic also coached Milan and the Serbia national team across a long career, while he also played for Roma, Sampdoria, Inter and Lazio among other clubs.

Tributes poured in from across the world of football on Friday and on Saturday, with tennis great Djokovic hailing his late compatriot.

"Rest in peace, dear Sinisa," Djokovic wrote on Instagram.

"Condolences to the Mihajlovic family. Thank you for everything you did for our sport, as well as in Italy. Your mark is indelible."