Novak Djokovic has hinted at his potential retirement at various points this season.
The 38-year-old is the all-time leader in major wins with 24, but is nearing the end of his decorated career. Djokovic has considered quitting tennis in the past, but seems keen to add his eighth Wimbledon title to his packed trophy cabinet.
He enters this year’s championship as the world number six, however, and with the likes of Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz going for the gold, it would take a monumental effort for the Serbian to go all the way.
And when asked whether this would be his last Wimbledon in his pre-tournament press conference, he had an interesting response.
‘You never know at this stage’- Djokovic casts doubt over his future in tennis
Djokovic admitted that even he is uncertain about the future longevity of his esteemed career. He was unable to confirm that he would be returning to Wimbledon after 2025.
When asked whether this would be his last Wimbledon, Djokovic said, “Is this my last dance? I’m not sure.”
He continued: “My wish is to play for several more years, but you never know at this stage.”
He has come close to winning the last two tournaments at SW19, but Djokovic lost to Alcaraz in the Wimbledon Final on both occasions.
This could be the last chance he has to win the legendary tournament with his future in the sport in doubt, but it’s difficult to bet against him on this stage.
Novak Djokovic has a better chance of winning Wimbledon than he did the French Open at Roland Garros
Djokovic, who plays sparingly at this point in his career, was competitive at the French Open, but was still a level beneath world number one Jannik Sinner in the semi-final. He lost in straight sets to the Italian before Alcaraz won the final at Roland Garros.
But Djokovic has had more success at Wimbledon than Roland Garros. He has won at SW19 more than twice as much, playing his best tennis on faster courts. He knows how to win, and he definitely knows how to win here.
He’s come agonisingly close despite not winning the competition in the last three years. He lost the 2023 Final to Alcaraz, which would have secured him the Grand Slam – he’s not that far removed from his brilliant best.
If this is the last time, can he reach deep in his back on one more occasion and produce some Centre Court magic on the big stage?