Novak Djokovic’s tennis career is now a mental challenge, with the world No. 1 pondering his future at age 36 but still eager for competition.
With three Grand Slam titles and the year-end trophy in his pocket from 2023.,, the Serb confessed to SportKlub that his priorities are now moving farther and farther from the actual court.
“I am a father of two children and I’m far from my family. Every time I travel for a long period of time, it breaks my heart,” the 24-time Grand Slam champion said.
“I’m always thinking about how long I should play, how many tournaments, if it’s worth it. I started this season as I usually do, coming to Australia early.”
But giving up a phenomenal career will not be easy for the lifelong competitor.
“I love playing here (in Australia), it’s where I’ve had the most success of my career in Grand Slams (10 Melbourne titles).
“Normally I always have a clear idea of where I want to go, what the goals are. I know the goals are still the Grand Slams and the Olympics.
“But other than that, I have no idea what tournaments I will or won’t play in.”
But retirement still remains just a concept for Djokovic.
“I’m still hungry, I want to continue competing. I can run for hours. It’s more about the emotional aspect, what my priority is.
“Tennis has been my priority for more than 20 years, 30 years, and I don’t want to miss too many moments with my children.”
Djokovic will put aside his concerns and bear down with the Open kicking off on Sunday, one day earlier than usual in what Tennis Australia says is a bid to reduce the number of post-midnight match finishes.
Others may call it a cash grab to get another day’s worth of punters through the gates of Melbourne Park.
“The Australian Open is what I aim for when I prepare my calendar at the beginning of the season,” he said.
“(2023) was an incredible year, it started off great in Australia, like most years.
When the wind blows in your favor, you feel better about your year in general.” .
Main photo:- Novak Djokovic (SRB) celebrates with ballkids as he wins Australian Open 2023 Men’s singles final
by Roger Parker International Sports Fotos Ltd
