Novak Djokovic, who lost the French Open semi-final match to world number one Jannik Sinner, seems to be considering his retirement.
After the match, the Serb said he is unsure if he would return to Roland Garros next year.
“This could have been the last match ever I played here – I don’t know. That’s why it was a bit more emotional at the end,” said Djokovic.
“But if this was the farewell match of Roland Garros for me in my career, it was a wonderful one in terms of the atmosphere and what I got from the crowd.”
Djokovic, who has been chasing a record 25th major title, lost the match 6-4 7-5 7-6 (7-3) in straight sets.
When asked about his future prospects, “I don’t know right now. Twelve months at this point in my career is quite a long time.
“Do I wish to play more? Yes, I do. But will I be able to play in 12 months’ time here again? I don’t know.
“That’s all I can say for the moment.”
Wimbledon and US Open
While he lost the battle to Sinner, Djokovic is just not yet ready to retire. There are two more Grand Slams remaining in the calendar year- the Wimbledon and the US Open.
“Those tournaments are the priorities of my schedule,” Djokovic said.
“Wimbledon and US Open, yes, they are in plans. That’s all I can say right now.
“I feel like I want to play those two, for sure. For the rest, I’m not so sure.”
Djokovic will be bidding for a record-equalling eighth men’s singles title at Wimbledon, having lost the past two finals there to Alcaraz.
“Wimbledon is my childhood favourite tournament. I’m going to do everything possible to get myself ready,” he added.
“I guess my best chances maybe are Wimbledon, you know, to win another Slam or maybe Australia.”
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End In Sight For Novak Djokovic
Djokovic has played 1,375 matches since turning professional in 2004. The 38-year-old is the only active player among the big four. The other three- Roger Federer, Rafal Nadal and Andy Murray- have all retired.
The end is clearly in sight for Djokovic. Since winning the gold medal at Paris Olympics 2024 in men’s singles, the 24-time grand slam champion has failed to win a single title yet.
With emerging players like Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz playing in their prime forms, Djokovic has been struggling to win a title. His retirement seems to be imminent, the only question is “When?”
