Tim Henman
expressed his opinion that Novak Djokovic will only retire when he loses
interest in achieving more success.
At 36 years
old, Djokovic continues to demonstrate being one of the fittest players on the
ATP Tour. A 20-year-long career has not prevented him from competing and
defeating players who are 10 or 15 years younger.
Considering
that most tennis players retire around Djokovic's age or when they are far from
their prime, predicting his retirement seems challenging. The former tennis
player and current sports commentator offered his insight into when Djokovic
might retire:
“His hunger
and desire has been clear for everybody to see,”
“If that
were to change and he doesn’t have the hunger or desire then he’ll probably
stop - but I don’t see that happening for a few good years yet,” Henman said.
“When
you’re talking about an athlete of Djokovic’s stature, I don’t think motivation
has been or will be an issue,” former British No 1 continued.
“What he’s
achieved, and the players that he’s beaten, and the rivalries that he’s had -
it’s absolutely incredible.
“If Alcaraz
wasn’t there I think Djokovic would be saying to himself, ‘right I can dominate
now, I want to win more and more and more.’ I don’t think that’s [just] the
case because Alcaraz has really stepped up to the next level. But the way I
would envisage Djokovic viewing that is, ‘well here’s my next challenge and I
want to prove to myself, prove to Alcaraz and prove to everyone else that I’m
still the best.’”
“I would
still say that Djokovic is the man to beat,” Henman added.
“He won the
first two Slams this year, he was in the final of Wimbledon. His record, his
experience is incredible. But it’s great that there is this early stage of a
new rivalry and they are obviously in completely different stages of their
careers. And let’s hope they do play plenty more times,” he claimed.
Since 2021,
Djokovic has participated in 9 Grand Slam tournaments and secured six titles.
He reached two finals and one quarterfinal, accumulating an impressive record
of 58 wins and 3 losses. In the upcoming US Open, Djokovic will enter as the
second seed and is set to make his debut against the French player Alexandre
Müller on Monday, August 28th.
Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist
Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.
His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.
In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.
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