“I feel sorry for those who want me to retire, because they will have to see me for a while longer” : Novak Djokovic
Novak Djokovic has hit out at critics following his loss to Jannik Sinner in the semifinals of the Six Kings Slam 2024. The Serbian has stated that he has no intentions to retire in the near future, as he still believes he can compete for Grand Slams.
Novak Djokovic has seen a decline in his form after claiming the gold medal at the Paris Olympics. After a shocking early round exit at the US Open, the Serbian was defeated in the finals of the Shanghai Open by Jannik Sinner. After suffering his second loss to the Italian in four days, the Serb was questioned if he has any intentions to call it a day like his fierce rival Rafael Nadal.
“I still feel that I enjoy the process and it generates all these benefits for me, so why not do it? Some people think I should retire from tennis at the top: “You won gold, you won everything, say goodbye.” Some people think I should keep going as long as I still think I can be the favorite for a Grand Slam. I think more like them,” said Novak.
Novak Djokovic will now face Rafael Nadal for the third place at the Six Kings Slam, which could potentially also be their last ever meeting. The Spaniard announced last week that he will retire post the 2024 Davis Cup to be held next month.
“For now I feel like I want to keep going” : Novak Djokovic
Novak Djokovic accepted the fact that the motivation to play and compete is a little less, as he also has a family he wants to spend time with. However, he believes he will keep going for at least some more time given that he still feels competitive.
“Maybe I will change my mind, I don’t know. For now I feel like I want to keep going. How much longer? Traveling and finding motivation is becoming more difficult for me. It’s not easy. And even less so with children. I don’t want to be away from home for so long, but I still have the drive. So I feel sorry for those who want me to retire, because they will have to see me for a while longer.”
Novak Djokovic also stated that he loves playing the Davis Cup, representing his country. Moreover, he reckons that he has more Grand Slams left in him, which pushes him to compete. The Serbian has not had a very consistent year on the tour by his standards, however, he achieved the most awaited milestone of his career, by winning the Olympic gold in Paris.
“Deep inside I feel that I still have more Grand Slams to win. What still pushes me to compete, especially in the Grand Slams, is the feeling that I can be a candidate to win it. And also for my country. I love playing the Davis Cup for Serbia. When I have to motivate myself, there are two things: one is to continue believing that I have the ability to continue fighting for the majors and win them,” said Novak Djokovic.
