Novak Djokovic has acknowledged that he is approaching the end of his career and that his emotions in the upcoming weeks might be critical in determining when he will retire.
After winning the Olympic gold medal by defeating Carlos Alcaraz in the Paris 2024 final, Djokovic has achieved his last major goal in tennis. As he prepares for the remaining months of this year, he will be contemplating his future.
Despite struggling for motivation and facing unexpected losses earlier this year, Djokovic regained his form and heroically navigated tough matches at the French Open. However, his journey at Roland Garros ended due to a knee injury requiring surgery on June 5. Remarkably, he quickly recovered to play at Wimbledon, reaching the final where he lost to Alcaraz.
Djokovic’s passionate performances led him to claim the Olympic gold medal for Serbia, completing his record of winning every major title in tennis. “In 2012, carrying the flag for my country was the best feeling until today,” said the 24-time Grand Slam winner. “This surpasses everything I imagined. Winning bronze in my first Olympics and then failing to medal in subsequent attempts was an obstacle I finally overcame at 37, defeating a 21-year-old who is likely the best player in the world now. This is perhaps the greatest success of my career.”
With his career achievements complete, questions arise about how much longer Djokovic will compete at the highest level. He has admitted that ATP Masters series events no longer fuel his ambition, and with the Olympic dream fulfilled, his future goals are uncertain.
Having more Grand Slam titles than any other male player and holding the world No. 1 ranking for over two years longer than anyone else, Djokovic’s legacy is secure. Although he could aim to extend his lead in Grand Slam titles and target an eighth Wimbledon title to match Roger Federer’s record, these achievements are not necessary for his legacy.
Djokovic has solidified his place in history as the greatest tennis player of all time and, with his Olympic dream realized, he questions what comes next. “It’s complete,” he said. “I have achieved everything with this gold medal, but I love the sport. I play not just to win tournaments, but because I love the competition, training, and perfecting my game. This sport has given me so much, and I give back with dedication and sacrifice.”
Djokovic will soon return to hard courts to defend his US Open title but will skip warm-up events in Toronto and Cincinnati. Although he has proven his resilience in tournaments, Alcaraz and world No. 1 Jannik Sinner have been formidable opponents in 2024, and Djokovic may not be the US Open favorite for the first time in many years.
Beating Alcaraz in a meaningful match is an achievement Djokovic will cherish, but whether he can still win a Grand Slam against younger competitors remains to be seen. When Djokovic steps on court at the US Open, his motivation and passion will be tested. If he no longer feels the drive to strive for perfection, he may soon accept that his beloved sport has given him all he needs.
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