Home
Novak Djokovic's recent first-round exit from the Qatar Open has made former world No. 21 Steve Johnson question the commitment of the 24-time Grand Slam winner toward the non-major tournaments. Djokovic, whose wait for the 25th Grand Slam was prolonged after an injury compelled him to retire from the Australian Open 2025, made a quick recovery only to suffer a loss to Matteo Berrettini in straight sets in round 1 at the Qatar Open.
Also Read | ATP Rankings: Novak Djokovic Faces Threat of Exiting Top 10 Picture Following Disappointing Loss in Qatar
Novak Djokovic Needs to Participate in Big Tournaments Only?
On the Nothing Major podcast, Johnson spoke candidly about Djokovic playing in Qatar and argued the world No. 7 has been looked flat emotionally more often recently. According to Johnson, Djokovic does not look motivated anymore for the non-grand slam tournaments.
“I am not sure what Novak’s plan is going forward, nobody knows it but him,” the American said. “I don’t know why he is playing this tournament just in general.
“It feels like he just wants to win Slams to continue his legacy and stamp as the greatest champion of the sport we have ever seen.
“There is obviously financial obligations and commitments he has made in the past, we don’t know exactly what it takes for him to play these types of events.
“It just feels as if he is not as motivated to win in Dubai or Doha than he is to win a Slam, which is rightfully so, because that’s the only thing which can further his legacy.
Despite the claim, Johnson expressed contentment in witnessing Djokovic make an earlier-than-expected return to the court.
“Good to see him out there playing, I thought we weren’t going to see him until Indian Wells and just play some of the Masters series to win the French [Open], win Wimby [Wimbledon]. So interesting to see him out there.
