“I don’t know where he got that information from”: Novak Djokovic shuts down claims about his ATP Finals comeback

Novak Djokovic denied his presence at the ATP Finals in Turin, despite it being widely assumed by the tennis world following statements by the head of the Italian Tennis Federation, Angelo Binaghi. The 24-time Grand Slam champion stated that he will make his decision after concluding his participation in the Hellenic Championships.

The former World No. 1 had a great debut in Athens, his new city of residence. With a full stadium to watch the Serb, he managed to take revenge on Alejandro Tabilo—who had won their two previous encounters. This time on hard courts, the Chilean was able to keep pace with the Serb during the second part of the match, but Nole ultimately took the victory 7-6(3), 6-1, advancing to the quarter-finals, where he will face Nuno Borges.

In a recent interview, the President of the Italian Tennis and Padel Federation (FITP), Angelo Binaghi, claimed that Djokovic had confirmed his presence in Turin, marking his return after being absent in 2024. The Serb had won the title in 2023 but was not present in Turin to defend the title this year.

There has been much speculation about the presence of the 38-year-old Djokovic at the ATP Finals, as he has long prioritized Grand Slams over any other tournament. After defeating Tabilo, the Serb contradicted the words of FITP President Binaghi, stating that he has not yet made a decision. "I don't know where he (Binaghi) got that information from. Definitely not from me or my team. I will decide at the end of this tournament."

The World No. 5 is one of only 2 players aged at least 38 who remain in the Top 100: Nole as World No. 4 and the Frenchman Gael Monfils as World No. 70 (39-year-old). During a press conference at the Hellenic Championships, the Serb referred to what motivates him to keep playing at 38.

"To be honest, I didn't plan it much in advance. Actually, several things have happened in the last couple of years, and we have made new decisions, both personally and professionally. But that's life. We have two small children and we try to adapt and find the best environment for them. That is our priority: that they grow up in an environment that is as favorable as possible for their psychological, physical, and emotional health. Ultimately, that we can have more time for ourselves as a family," explained Djokovic regarding the move to Greek soil.

"For the past two months, we have been trying out life in Greece, and the impressions are very positive. We feel welcome; the people are kind, generous, and friendly. At the same time, as a family, we feel we have more time to do things that bring us closer," added the 38-year-old tennis player.

Djokovic is preparing to dispute his quarter-final duel—after receiving a bye in the first round and Tabilo in the second. The former No. 1 is fifth in the live rankings, although he will advance to 4th in the next update—prior to the ATP Finals. The Serb aspires to finish the year within the Top 4 to avoid possible duels against Alcaraz or Sinner before the semi-finals at the upcoming Australian Open.

This time, he will face Portugal's Nuno Borges—a clay specialist—who is currently World No. 47 and comes from defeating Stefanos Sakellaridis and Eliot Spizzirri.