Djokovic Expected to Retire After Achieving 25th Grand Slam Title
USA — Legendary tennis player Chris Evert has suggested that Novak Djokovic might announce his retirement if he secures a record-breaking 25th Grand Slam singles title.
Although Djokovic has yet to win an ATP Tour event this season, he is considered a leading contender for the US Open title following his Olympic gold medal victory. He is pursuing several records, including winning the US Open five more times, adding eight more Wimbledon titles, and reaching 25 Grand Slam singles titles. He currently shares the record of 24 Grand Slam titles with female legend Margaret Court.
From the standpoint of Evert, a former Grand Slam champion with 18 titles, Djokovic is likely to retire if he achieves his goal of 25 Grand Slams. “I believe Djokovic will step away from the game if he wins another Grand Slam,” Evert said. “He is primarily competing now for the Olympic gold medal. Once he achieves that, his only remaining motivation will be the 25 Grand Slam titles.”
Evert also noted that while Djokovic has the potential to achieve more major victories, particularly in Grand Slam tournaments, his motivation may be waning, especially given the absence of former rivals Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal. Federer has been retired for two years, and Nadal is expected to retire after this season.
Last month, Djokovic admitted that his motivation has diminished, and he mainly plays for his passion for tennis and the joy of competing with younger players. With 24 Grand Slam titles, Djokovic holds a record that is likely to remain unchallenged for at least a decade, if not longer, as the younger generation has yet to approach the level of the “Big 3.”
“The challenge of maintaining the same energy and drive as he did during the Paris Olympics will be tough for Djokovic,” Evert added in an interview with ESPN on August 21. “Perhaps fans are ready and willing to accept that their idol might be stepping away from the sport. I’ve heard that Djokovic’s parents have wanted him to retire for a few years now, and I’m fairly certain he is a family man.”
Currently ranked world number two, Djokovic will compete in his 18th US Open next week. This is the Grand Slam where Djokovic has lost the most finals, with six defeats. He has won the title four times, in 2011, 2015, 2018, and 2023. Djokovic is set to face Radu Albot in his opening match on August 26.