Novak Djokovic has deliberately limited his appearances on court this year. The attempt is to ensure he maintains his physical health and deal with the challenges thrown at him by age in a better manner. The 37-year-old has already made it clear that his focus is on Grand Slams and representing his country. So, the fans are likely to witness Djokovic participate in just one more tournament this year.
After playing back-to-back at the Shanghai Masters and the 6 Kings Slam, the Serb has withdrawn from the Paris Masters. Even though Paris is one of his favourite hunting grounds, Djokovic, a seven-time champion at the Masters 1000 tournament, is keen to ensure longevity in the sport by picking and choosing his battles.
The 24-time Grand Slam champion will play in the ATP Finals next, slated from November 10-17. His presence in Turin isn’t guaranteed either. It, after all, depends on whether he would qualify or not. Only the top eight players qualify for the Finals. Djokovic is currently ranked fourth.
However, the decision to skip the Paris Masters could slide him down the rankings since other contenders are competing in various tournaments to secure their spots.
Djokovic, though, is not likely to be concerned about it. The tennis legend made it clear last month that playing in the ATP Finals or staying atop the rankings were no longer his objectives.
“I do not know if I will play in the Finals this year or next, but right now, what I need the most is physical, mental, and emotional rest to decide what comes next in my career, how much more I want to play, and where,” the Serb said.
Although the champion may not be seen on the court soon, or at all this season, he has given fans plenty of memories to cherish this year.
Djokovic’s 2024 season
Despite struggling with fitness, Djokovic’s 2024 season cannot be considered a failure. Though the Serb didn’t win a Grand Slam this year, he was able to add the one crucial thing missing from his ever-expanding trophy cabinet — an Olympic gold (he won the top prize at the Paris 2024 Games).
Djokovic also managed to reach the final of Wimbledon and the ATP 1000 event in Shanghai. He made it to the semifinals of the Australian Open and the quarterfinals of the French Open. His only early exit came at the US Open (third round), which can be justified as it happened immediately after the Olympics.
At 37, Djokovic still managed a season that many players would consider successful. Should he qualify for next month’s ATP Finals, tennis fans would be a happy lot for the chance to see the legend in action one last time this year.
