'I'm going to be very expensive for him' - Novak Djokovic hints at coaching current tennis star after retirement

Former World No.1 Novak Djokovic has ascended to the mountaintop in the tennis community, having etched his name in history as one of the best players of all time. However, the Serbian superstar is approaching the twilight of his career and fans could see him hanging up his racket sooner rather than later.

The 38-year old has a record 24 Grand Slam singles titles to his name, but still appears motivated to add more to his tally. Djokovic will be competing at the 2025 US Open with hopes of lifting one more major title, after coming close at each of the three Grand Slam events earlier this year.

Djokovic reached the semifinals at the Australian Open, Roland Garros and Wimbledon. However, the World No.7 has failed to get past the final four, with his last Grand Slam title coming at the 2023 US Open.

With his days on tour dwindling down, the Serbian has shifted his focus to major events. Djokovic kicked off his 2025 US Open campaign with a first round victory over American Learner Tien, scoring an impressive 6-1 7-6(3) 6-2 victory on Arthur Ashe stadium.

Djokovic picks potential mentee from next generation

In a promo for the US Open where players were made to answer random questions, Djokovic was lobbed a question by Brazilian wonderkid Joao Fonseca.

“What’s your plan after you retire from tennis?” asked the 18-year old ATP star.

“My plan after I retire from tennis is to coach [Joao] Fonseca," replied Djokovic with a smile. "I’m going to be very expensive for him, so be ready."

Fonseca has been impressive in his breakout season on the ATP Tour, upsetting Andrey Rublev at the Australian Open earlier this year. The Brazilian would later win his maiden ATP Tour title at the Argentina Open.

The 2024 ATP NextGen Finals champion's ascension has not gone unnoticed by his peers, as Djokovic was quick to praise the youngster during the first half of the season.

"He's been the talk of the tour in the last several months. I mean, deservedly so,” said Djokovic earlier this year. “He's a very good tennis player. I mean, so young. Just incredible firepower from both ends of the baseline, serve. He's a very complete player."