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Novak Djokovic’s quest for a historic 25th Grand Slam has hit turbulence, sparking whispers about the twilight of his legendary career. The 37-year-old Serbian, sidelined by injury at the Australian Open and stunned by early exits in Doha and Indian Wells, faces mounting questions about his longevity. Enter Patrick Mouratoglou, the tactical mastermind behind Serena Williams’ dominance.
The French coach, now mentoring Naomi Osaka, has dropped a bombshell take on Djokovic’s future—one that challenges the narrative of the Serb mirroring Roger Federer’s late-career resilience. But what exactly did he say?
Mouratoglou’s blunt take on Novak Djokovic’s motivation
Mouratoglou didn’t mince words when asked if Djokovic would outlast Federer’s retirement age of 41. “False,” he declared on Instagram.
“Novak Djokovic will end his career earlier than 41 years old, I think, but it all depends on his motivation. I don’t feel his motivation is going to last four more years.”
The remark cuts to the core of Djokovic’s current struggles. Since withdrawing from January’s Australian Open semifinal with a wrist injury, the World No. 7 has looked uncharacteristically vulnerable. A shocking loss to Matteo Berrettini in Qatar—his first defeat to the Italian—was followed by a chaotic Indian Wells collapse against lucky loser Botic van de Zandschulp. For context, it’s the first time since 2018 that Djokovic has lost opening matches at back-to-back tournaments.
Why Mouratoglou’s warning matters:
Motivation vs. Milestones: Novak Djokovic’s chase for a 25th major has been derailed by injuries and erratic form. Mouratoglou’s critique suggests the Serb’s legendary drive may be waning.
Age Barrier: No male player has won a Grand Slam at 38+—a threshold Djokovic hits before Roland Garros. Can he defy history?
Legacy Pressure: Federer’s emotional 2022 exit with Nadal contrasts sharply with Djokovic’s current limbo. Does the Serb crave a poetic swansong, or will he fade quietly?
Djokovic’s 2025 season is a paradox. While his Indian Wells loss to van de Zandschulp (6-2, 3-6, 6-1) showcased flashes of brilliance, his inconsistency raises red flags. Yet, the Serb’s resilience is storied. After a mid-career slump in 2017-18, he roared back to claim 12 majors. Could this be another temporary dip?
Mouratoglou’s prediction hinges on intangibles: hunger, fire, and the grind of tour life. For Novak Djokovic, Wimbledon looms as a litmus test. An eighth title there would silence doubters—but another early exit might fuel retirement rumors.
