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In a year where Novak Djokovic has fallen short of his 25th Grand Slam title on three separate occasions, the tennis world expected him to ramp up his efforts heading into the US Open. Instead, the 37-year-old Serbian legend has taken a route few anticipated — choosing rest over reps — and his decision is turning heads for all the right reasons.
While many initially questioned his withdrawal from both the Canadian Open and the Cincinnati Masters, Djokovic’s move has now been met with a wave of praise from within the tennis community. It's not just about skipping two key tournaments — it’s about making a strategic pivot in the twilight of a legendary career.
A Calculated Gamble to Prioritize the Bigger Picture
Djokovic’s 2025 Grand Slam journey has been rocky. He reached the semifinals at the Australian Open and the French Open, only to be stopped by Alexander Zverev and Jannik Sinner, respectively. Wimbledon followed a similar pattern, with Sinner once again dominating Djokovic in straight sets.
Rather than risk further fatigue, Novak Djokovic has opted to skip the final hard-court warm-up events before the US Open. While such a move may appear unorthodox for a player known for his relentless preparation, it’s exactly this change in mindset that experts say could be the key to longevity — and potentially, Grand Slam No. 25.
Experts Applaud Novak Djokovic’s Fresh Approach
Simon Rea, former coach to Nick Kyrgios, praised Djokovic’s decision on the podcast The Tennis, calling it a "change in approach" that deserves applause.
“I think it’s to be applauded that he is trying something different again,” Rea said. “He is prepared to go in there slightly underdone from a physical perspective, because he is thinking I need every ounce of energy available at the backend of that fortnight.”
With the brutal conditions of Flushing Meadows — high humidity, scorching heat, and five-set marathons — Novak Djokovic is banking on freshness over match momentum. Rea added, “You can’t go to the supermarket and buy confidence off the shelf,” acknowledging that while Djokovic may lack match sharpness early, he’s betting on his championship mentality and experience to carry him through.
A Move Rooted in Legacy
Unlike Sinner and Alcaraz, who also withdrew from the Canadian Open but will return for Cincinnati, Djokovic is committing to full rest. It’s a bold shift in strategy, especially considering a similar approach in 2024 didn’t pan out. But Djokovic’s willingness to evolve, even this late in his career, is exactly why many believe he remains a formidable Grand Slam threat.
His shocking withdrawal might have triggered debate initially, but as the US Open looms, fans and analysts alike are starting to understand the brilliance behind the decision. Novak Djokovic isn’t just chasing titles — he’s redefining what it means to compete smartly at the highest level.
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