Djokovic Reflects on His Wimbledon Future
WIMBLEDON, England – The question about Novak Djokovic’s future has become a constant, especially in Grand Slam tournaments. At each event, the Serbian tennis player faces the same question: Will this be his last participation? Djokovic’s response is usually ambiguous, hinting at uncertainty about his retirement. “I’m not sure if it will be my ‘last dance’,” commented the 24-time Grand Slam champion, repeating the phrase used by the reporter. “I’m not sure, just as I’m not sure about Roland Garros or any other Grand Slam I play next.” Djokovic added that his wish is to continue playing for several more years, hoping to stay physically and mentally healthy to compete at the highest level. However, he acknowledges that at this moment, everything is uncertain.The All England Club could be the ideal setting for Djokovic to win another Grand Slam title, which would allow him to reach 25, a record still unmatched in men’s tennis. Djokovic, who will face Alexandre Muller in the first round on Tuesday, has won seven championships at Wimbledon and was close to adding an eighth title, a number that would equal Roger Federer’s record. In the last six editions of the tournament, Djokovic has reached the final, winning in 2018, 2019, 2021 and 2022. His last defeat at Wimbledon was in 2017, in the quarterfinals.My wish is to play for several more years. I would love to be physically healthy and also mentally motivated to continue playing at the highest level. That is the goal. But you never know at this stage.
Novak Djokovic
These questions about Djokovic’s future are similar to those faced by figures like Federer, Rafael Nadal, and Serena Williams as they approached the end of their careers.
Despite not having won a Grand Slam title in over a year and a half, Djokovic remains a formidable competitor. He reached the semi-finals of the Australian Open in January and the final of the French Open this month. In addition, Djokovic won a gold medal for Serbia at the Paris Olympics, defeating Carlos Alcaraz. “These tournaments give me the biggest boost,” Djokovic affirmed. “I like how I feel now, physically. As for tennis, I’ve been playing well in practice sessions. Obviously, it’s completely different when you start a tournament. I will try to have a very good tournament and go as far as possible.”
