Novak Djokovic to face another blow, making his 2025 season go from bad to worse

Serbian legend Novak Djokovic’s tumultuous 2025 season is poised to take another nosedive, compounding what has already been a year of frustration and unmet expectations. The 24-time Grand Slam champion, chasing an elusive 25th major title, has endured a string of early exits—from the Australian Open (due to injury) to the Qatar Open, Indian Wells Masters, Miami Open, Monte Carlo Masters, and a recent first-round defeat at the Madrid Open, where he fell to Italy’s Matteo Arnaldi in straight sets.

Opting to skip the Italian Open to prioritize recovery for Roland Garros, Djokovic now faces an unforeseen threat that could further derail his campaign: a looming rankings freefall.

How Jack Draper’s Madrid surge threatens Novak Djokovic

While Djokovic licks his wounds, British sensation Jack Draper is scripting a career-defining run at the Madrid Open—one that could shove the Serbian icon out of the ATP’s top five. Draper, seeded fifth, stormed into his maiden clay-court Masters 1000 quarterfinal with a dominant 6-2, 6-2 win over Tommy Paul, showcasing a blend of power and precision that’s left rivals reeling. But beyond the on-court brilliance lies a rankings shakeup with Novak Djokovic squarely in the crosshairs.

The points puzzle

Entering Madrid, a mere 300 points separated Djokovic (4,130) and Draper (3,820). The Serb’s shock first-round exit earned him just 10 points, while Draper’s quarterfinal berth has already added 170 points to his tally (3,990 total). Should Draper defeat Arnaldi in the quarters, he’ll leapfrog Djokovic with 4,190 points, securing a career-high No. 5 ranking.

The domino effect

Draper isn’t the only threat. Australia’s Alex de Minaur, alive in the draw, could also disrupt the standings. A deep run by de Minaur—potentially facing Draper in the semifinals—might push both past Novak Djokovic. Even if de Minaur falls short, Draper’s momentum positions him to eclipse the Serb, whose decision to skip Madrid in 2024 backfired spectacularly.

Why this matters for Djokovic

A rankings drop would compound Djokovic’s woes, affecting his seeding at Roland Garros and intensifying pressure to defend his legacy. Once an untouchable force, the 36-year-old now grapples with a reality where rising stars like Draper capitalize on his vulnerabilities.

Draper’s redemption arc

The 23-year-old Brit, fresh off his Indian Wells triumph, has transformed from a promising talent to a bona fide contender. His Madrid campaign—marked by a 20-winner barrage against Paul—signals a player peaking at the perfect time. For Djokovic, Draper’s ascent is a stark reminder that time waits for no one.

As Draper eyes a maiden Masters 1000 title, Novak Djokovic’s focus shifts to Paris, where another early exit could spell disaster. The Serb’s aura of invincibility has faded, replaced by questions about his longevity. Meanwhile, Draper’s rise epitomizes the relentless churn of tennis—a sport where today’s struggler can become tomorrow’s king.

For Djokovic, the road to redemption narrows with each passing tournament. For Draper, Madrid isn’t just a title hunt—it’s a chance to etch his name into the hierarchy of a sport in flux.