Will Djokovic skip ATP Finals? Former Roger Federer’s coach thinks so

Former Roger Federer’s coach, Ivan Ljubicic, doubts Novak Djokovic will compete in the ATP Finals following his Paris Masters withdrawal. The Croatian ex-tennis player believes Djokovic’s participation in the Shanghai Masters showed that, when motivated, he can compete against anyone.

On multiple occasions, Djokovic has stated his main goals are the Grand Slams and tournaments where he represents Serbia, like the Olympic Games or Davis Cup. Djokovic has played just nine tournaments this season, including the four Grand Slams and only four Masters 1000 events.

His Paris Masters withdrawal—where he holds seven titles—adds to his absences at the Miami, Madrid, Montreal, and Cincinnati Opens. "Unfortunately, I won’t be playing the Paris Masters this year," the 24-time Grand Slam winner wrote on Instagram. "I have a lot of great memories, winning seven titles, and I hope to be back with you next year. Sorry to everyone who was hoping to see me there."

Paris was the only confirmed tournament left for Djokovic in the 2024 season. Whether he will qualify for the ATP Finals remains to be seen, as he currently ranks 6th with 3,910 points. Although in a favorable position, the results in Paris will be critical in determining if he qualifies, as rivals like Alex De Minaur, Grigor Dimitrov, and Tommy Paul could still bump him out of contention for Turin.

Regardless, Djokovic’s participation in the ATP Finals remains uncertain, as he may choose not to attend even if he qualifies. Speaking with Sky Sports, Ivan Ljubicic commented on Djokovic's current motivation, particularly after the retirement of his major rivals—Roger Federer (2022), Rafael Nadal, and Andy Murray (2024).

“I don’t know, and I believe he doesn’t know either at the moment,” said the Croatian. “In my opinion, his goal is definitely the tournaments and not the ranking because to climb higher, he would have to play much more.

“He is neither physically nor mentally prepared for it, but he showed us in Shanghai that when he wants to compete, he can challenge the best,” Ljubicic added. “I doubt he will play in Turin this year, but he will try again next year.”

Djokovic himself admitted that he has little interest in the ranking or Finals. “Turin is not my goal at all, to be honest. I am not chasing ATP Finals, I am not chasing the rankings, etc.,” the world No. 4 told reporters in Serbia during a Davis Cup tie against Greece.