"I know a lot of people would love me to retire": Novak Djokovic vows to continue playing despite retirement of fellow players

Serbia’s legendary tennis star, Novak Djokovic, believes that a lot of people would want to see him retire from professional tennis. The 37-year-old is often regarded as the greatest player in the history of men’s tennis in the Open era, having won as many as 24 Grand Slam titles.

Djokovic was recently quoted in the report, saying that he wished some of his fellow players the best for the future, who are nearing the end of their careers or have already ended, like Britain’s Andy Murray and Rafael. The former world number one also stated that he knows people wish to see him retire so that the era of ‘Big Three’ or ‘Big Four’ will be over but expressed determination to continue playing as long as possible.

"I heard the news about Andy and I hope that he will have the best possible farewell in his last competitive match here in Olympics for him and his country,” he said. “He is a legend of our sport, he’s been an incredibly important player for tennis globally. Nadal of course the same, even more, all the results and achievements he has had, particularly in this city in Roland Garros. I don’t have the retirement clause in my mind to be honest even though I know a lot of people would love me to retire so that this era is done. But I think as long as one of us is left in the competition, I think the era is still going.”

Murray, often regarded as the most significant British player in the history of men’s tennis in the Open era in the singles category, recently announced that the Paris Olympics will be his last tournament in professional tennis. He took this decision after consistent fitness struggles throughout his career. On the other hand, the former world number one Nadal, who is also regarded as one of the greatest players in the history of men’s tennis, announced last year that 2024 will be his last at the highest level. The Spaniard is certain to participate in the doubles category alongside Carlos Alcaraz, but his participation in the singles category remains doubtful.