Novak Djokovic’s hopes of qualifying for the ATP Finals in Turin were ended by an early defeat at the Paris Masters. Questions remain over what comes next for the 24-time Grand Slam champion.
The Serbian, who turns 40 next May, can look back on the 2026 season with positive memories, including the Australian Open final and the semi-finals at Wimbledon. However, the coveted Grand Slam title he has been chasing since winning the 2023 US Open continues to elude him.
Courier: “I don’t know what to believe about Novak”
Time has been unforgiving for Djokovic, who has struggled to complete tournaments without injuries that undermine his goals. Questions about a possible retirement come up repeatedly whenever the Serbian speaks to the media.
On the latest edition of the podcast “Off Court with Greg Rusedski”, due to be released on Monday, former world number one Jim Courier admitted he no longer tries to guess what comes next for Djokovic. He suggested it is up to the player himself to decide when it is time to step away from the sport.
“I don’t know what to believe about Novak, honestly,” said Courier. “He is a real boundary pusher. It’s incredible. My biggest question is: where does he want to end his career? Does he have this idea of a perfect ending? I know he has said publicly several times that the Olympics are his ultimate goal, and maybe that’s where it all ends. He will need some luck to stay healthy until then, because that isn’t next year. So he has some time before he gets there.”
Courier praised the work Djokovic has done throughout his career to maintain his physical condition, especially the flexibility work, which he considers essential. However, he expressed admiration for the Serbian’s continued desire to challenge himself, particularly given the age of his children.
“I have children of a very similar age to his and it is painful to be away from them, because we are running out that window before they stop wanting to spend time with us.”
Rusedski: “He needs a bit of luck”
Greg Rusedski, the former British number one, also commented on Djokovic’s situation and said the Serbian will need a bit of luck to win another Grand Slam title.
“Things have to line up for him to reach that number 25,” said Rusedski. “He needs a bit of luck, especially with players like Alcaraz and Sinner suffering injuries. For me, Novak is a true legend. He is the greatest of all time. We can look at the numbers, but his longevity and the level he plays at aged 39 are impressive.”
The tennis world now awaits Djokovic’s next steps, as he continues to defy the odds and remain competitive at the highest level. For more on the Serbian great, also read Djokovic’s warning about health problems and his legacy.
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