How Much Longer Until Djokovic Leaves Tennis?

With Novak’s early departure from the US Open, the 39-year-old is now posed with another long break and a question regarding his timeline in tennis. The US Open is the final of four major tournaments in tennis. The next major will be held in January in Melbourne, Australia. 

With what will be a three-to-four-month break, Novak Djokovic can still play in other ATP tournaments. But for a 24-time grand slam singles champion, the decision to walk away from the sport he loves won’t be easy. 

However, signs are slowly pointing towards his departure from the sport of tennis.

Pure Love For Tennis

Novak has been involved in the ATP since 2004. In the past 22 years, he’s made himself a fan-favorite and well-known player for all fans to cheer at each tournament along with becoming the fifth player in all of tennis to complete the Golden Slam in singles. 

He’s devoted the last 20 years of his life to tennis and may now be ready to head back home to Serbia and enjoy time with his family stress-free. 

Injuries Are Piling Up 

Novak struggled in his opening matchup in New York due to multiple injuries that later caused him to lose his match. From health issues and cramps to back and shoulder pain, recovering will take Novak more time than usual due to his age. 

His list of medically retiring from many matches has started to have fans wonder when he may retire. The clock for Novak is starting to tick and unfortunately, the US Open may very well have been his last major for one of the greatest tennis players in ATP history.  

He’s Getting Old 

Age will be a big factor for Djokovic. Turning 40 next year means that his time left on tennis courts is very limited. Along with his age, the younger talents like Sinner and Alvarez are making it harder for Djokovic to win grand slams. Meaning, his success won’t contribute to another grand slam trophy with the younger talents moving faster and having more stamina than him. 

Fans know that he’s in incredible shape but, the youth will always be more successful and will show more effort when going against Djokovic. Winning against him may be the greatest victory for some players in the ATP. 

Although the youth doesn’t have the experience as him, the youth has more drive and passion to defeat him and get a milestone victory on their resume. 

How Much Longer Does Novak Have?

Novak has stated that he doesn’t know his timeline in tennis. Most players would announce when their final tournament is approaching and happening. To what may shock many, 2028 would be the hard cut for him with the Olympics in Los Angeles that year. With just two years until the Olympics, he would likely push himself to prepare and be ready for the Olympics.

If he wins his second gold medal for Serbia, he may retire right there with Serbia in his chest and would leave the sport he spent 22 years playing after winning a gold medal for his country.