President Milanović presents Nobel laureate John Martinis with Croatia's top decoration

President Zoran Milanović on Monday presented Nobel Prize-winning physicist John Martinis with one of Croatia's highest state honors, the Grand Order of King Dmitar Zvonimir.

Martinis, whose family is originally from Croatia, is visiting the country for the first time in 48 years. His father was a fisherman from the island town of Komiža who emigrated to the United States, while his mother was born in the U.S. to Croatian parents.

Presenting the decoration, Milanović praised Martinis for his achievements and his strong connection to his Croatian heritage.

"You are the first Croat in many decades to receive this prestigious award. Even more important than the fact that your parents are from Croatia is that you have always proudly emphasized your Croatian roots," the President said.

Martinis said he was deeply proud of his Croatian background and credited his parents with shaping both his character and scientific curiosity.

"I am very proud of my Croatian heritage, through my father, who was born here, and my mother, whose parents were born here. When you're a physicist, you always bring something unique to your science. My parents made a huge difference in my life. My father was a fisherman, and he taught me many things about building. As you know, if you own a fishing boat, there's always something that needs fixing or building. My mother and father also always encouraged me to ask questions," Martinis said.

He added that returning to Croatia had been an emotional experience.

"This week, coming to Croatia, I really felt like I was coming home. I recognize the culture and the sense of community that we had in San Pedro, California. I have felt incredibly welcome and have already made many friends," he said.

Martinis was awarded the 2025 Nobel Prize in Physics alongside John Clarke and Michel Devoret. He is a professor at the University of California, Santa Barbara.