Will Novak Djokovic play 2028 Olympics? Serb reveals retirement plans
What's the story
Novak Djokovic, the Serbian tennis legend, has revealed his retirement plans after withdrawing from the ATP Finals and ending his season early. The announcement comes after he won the Hellenic Championship in Athens, beating Lorenzo Musetti in the final. The victory also led to Musetti joining the ATP Finals as Djokovic's replacement. Will Djokovic, the 24-time Grand Slam champion, feature in the 2028 Olympics?
Career longevity
I want to play until 2028: Djokovic
After his win in Athens, Djokovic was asked about his future. The 38-year-old made it clear that he isn't retiring anytime soon. He hopes to continue playing at least until 2028, with an eye on representing Serbia at the next Olympics. "I've always had this throughout my life and my career...What I want, how I want it," Djokovic said about his career plans.
Olympic dreams
Olympic Games will be my last match, says Djokovic
Djokovic, who won the gold medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics, said he wants to end his career at the 2028 Games with the Serbian flag. However, he also admitted that not everything is under his control despite his efforts to stay healthy. "I don't know because there are some things that are not entirely in my control," Djokovic said while stressing on mental and physical health.
Tennis hierarchy
Djokovic on Alcaraz, Sinner's dominance
Djokovic also commented on the current dominance of Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner in tennis. He refrained from drawing parallels to the Big 4 era. At a press conference, when asked about Sinner and Alcaraz raising tennis to a new level, Djokovic clarified: "I didn't say that. I said that those two play a level above others currently."
Title chase
Djokovic closing in on Margaret Court's record
Djokovic's win in Athens finally handed him his much-awaited 101st tour-level title. He earlier suffered semi-final exits at each of the four Grand Slams. Djokovic is now one away from surpassing legend Margaret Court (24) in terms of most Grand Slam titles among men or women. As the Serb will be touching 40, his fatigue and fitness issues have been increasing rapidly.