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Novak Djokovic’s future in professional tennis is under intense speculation as the US Open approaches. The 24-time Grand Slam champion, who bowed out in the semifinals at Wimbledon 2024 against rising star Jannik Sinner, admitted to feeling physically drained—a rare admission from one of the sport’s most tireless athletes. Now, a Tennis Hall of Famer has added fuel to the retirement rumors, suggesting that an early exit in New York could mark the end of Djokovic’s legendary journey.
Physical decline and mental fatigue: Signs of a farewell?
Djokovic’s recent performances have been strong by any standard—but not by his own. Despite reaching the latter stages of major tournaments, the Serbian superstar has hinted that the toll on his body is becoming harder to ignore. Speaking after his Wimbledon loss, Novak Djokovic said he had been dealing with physical fatigue more frequently in recent Slams.
That has opened the door for speculation, including from fellow players like Nick Kyrgios, about an impending retirement. But now, renowned tennis journalist and International Tennis Hall of Fame inductee Steve Flink has offered a pointed analysis that could give fans more reason to believe the end is near.
“Novak Djokovic might think seriously to say there is no point”
Flink appeared on Gill Gross’s YouTube channel and discussed the possibility of Djokovic retiring, referencing Andy Roddick’s comments on the mounting pressure Djokovic faces to chase a 25th Slam.
“I think if he came to New York and didn’t go that far and had a surprising loss in the round of 16 then I think he might think seriously to say there is no point. How is this going to get better next year? I am going to turn 39, why would my body react better?”
Flink praised Novak Djokovic’s professionalism and work ethic, stating that no one could question his commitment. However, he also pointed out the unrealistic expectations being placed on the Serbian champion, especially when it comes to surpassing Margaret Court’s record of 24 Grand Slam titles—a narrative he believes is flawed.
The Margaret court comparison
Flink argued that the obsession with Djokovic surpassing Court’s tally is misplaced. He emphasized that Court’s 24 Slams came in an era when competition was not as fierce, particularly during the pre-Open Era in women’s tennis.
“You are not competing against Margaret Court, she is not even in the conversation for the greatest women’s tennis player of all time... She won a lot of cheap Australian Opens... It’s a phony target.”
According to Flink, the real legacy Novak Djokovic was chasing—and already achieved—was surpassing Federer and Nadal in the men’s game. Any additional Slams, including a 25th, might not hold as much historical weight as previously thought.
A legend at the crossroads
As Djokovic prepares for the US Open, the stakes feel uniquely personal. He’s already the most successful male player in terms of Grand Slam titles, and his place in tennis history is secure. But if the physical toll continues to mount and the motivation to chase arbitrary records wanes, Flink believes that the US Open could very well be the setting for Djokovic’s final bow.
For fans and pundits alike, all eyes will be on New York—not just to see how far Novak Djokovic goes, but whether this tournament becomes the moment he decides to hang up his racket.
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