“I don’t believe in accidents, everything happens for a reason” - Novak Djokovic reflects on journey to the top of tennis while stating retirement plans

Novak Djokovic has confirmed that he is not going anywhere in the sport for some time as he reflects on his pathway to the top, with it not being easy with many hurdles needed to overcome.

Speaking at the World Sports Summit at Madinat Jumeirah in Dubai, Djokovic spoke on the imminent prospect of his retirement from the sport. The 38-year-old is still going strong in the sport despite his age, a huge testament to his focus to fitness and recovery, aiding his longevity in the sport. The world number four may be still competing at the top end of the sport, but he is not winning what he once was.

The 24-time Grand Slam champion has not lifted another major title since the end of 2023 at the US Open. With the sport now dominated by Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner, the Serbian is not getting as much as a sniff as he used to. With whispers of his retirement on the horizon, Djokovic still has a firm ambition: to defend his Olympic gold medal. “The LA Olympics is a guiding star. There’s no limit,” he said. “I love competing. As long as I feel good, my body holds up, and I play at a high level — why not?”

Djokovic has been in the sport for two decades, and believes that he is still adding more to the sport. “I’m still contributing to tennis,” he stated. “Big changes are coming, and I want to be part of them.”

He is looking to create more opportunities for the younger generations starting to make their first foray into tennis. He cares deeply about how people see him, wanting to be a good example in the sport. “I care deeply about how younger generations perceive me — not just results, but character and values.”

His road to the top has not been straightforward, with him having to work hard for the rewards he now reaps. “It’s important to know where you come from," he commented. "To respect your family and your culture, and then bring your best self to the world.”

At home, he was the eldest son, which saw a heap of responsibility placed firmly on his tender shoulders. “Was it too early? Probably,” he admitted. “But it made me appreciative of everything I have today.” It benefited him to this day. "In the long run, that’s the biggest win.”

Tennis was not destined to Djokovic from the start. He was touted to follow in his father's footsteps and become a skier, but tennis was always calling his name. Courts were built near where he lived, and the rest is history. “I don’t believe in accidents,” he reflected. “Everything happens for a reason.”

Financial problems would cost him having the chance to compete at many tournaments during his younger years, but this just boosted his motivation to get better. “Losses force you to face your biggest fears,” he said. “Life arranges things so we can learn lessons.”

With becoming more famous also leads to one gaining their own identity. Djokovic did not find his natural image from the start but would eventually find it in the end. “I went through a phase where I tried to be someone else,” he said.

Djokovic has won pretty much everything the sport has thrown at him. He has virtually completed almost every record in tennis and has firmly cemented himself as a legend. However, he is still not done with his tennis career, looking to add more to what is a ready a very decorated catalogue.

“Longevity isn’t just about sports. It’s about how you manage your body, mind, energy, and time.” He concluded with a famous quote from Billie Jean King: “Pressure is a privilege. I always wanted to be on the world stage, and I’m grateful to still be here.”