(Amber Searls-USA TODAY Sports)
Novak Djokovic’s disappointing run at the 2024 Madrid Open has sparked fresh speculation about his future on the ATP Tour. Following a surprise defeat to Italy’s Matteo Arnaldi, Djokovic openly reflected on his uncertain path ahead, hinting that this might have been his final appearance at the Madrid event.
“I didn’t have high expectations here,” Djokovic admitted after the loss, during the post match press conference. “I just hoped to play one more match than in Monte Carlo. It’s weird, I wasn’t used to approaching these tournaments like this over the last 20 years. It’s the cycle of life.”
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The 24-time Grand Slam champion’s comments marked a significant shift in tone from his usual competitive confidence. Acknowledging his current struggles, Djokovic also tempered expectations for his upcoming Roland Garros campaign. “I won’t be one of the main favorites at Roland Garros. Maybe that will help me, I don’t know,” he said, signaling that he recognizes the challenges ahead as he battles form and fitness issues.
Perhaps most strikingly, Djokovic did not rule out the idea that this could be his final appearance at the Madrid Open. “This could have been my last match in Madrid. I don’t know if I’ll be back. I don’t know right now,” he revealed, adding to a growing sense that the twilight of his storied career may be closer than fans would like to believe.
Fans were left sad and took to twitter to express their emotions.
“Things are different, obviously, with my strokes, with my body, with my movement, it’s the reality that I have to accept. I’ll try to make the most out of these new circumstances that I have, particularly on Grand Slams, where it counts the most for me”, said Djokovic.
While Djokovic has hinted in the past that he would listen to his body and motivations carefully before making any career decisions, the emotional undertone of his comments in Madrid suggests that the end of an era could be approaching. For now, fans will wait anxiously to see if the Serbian legend can find one more spark ahead of the French Open, where he will attempt to add another historic chapter to his illustrious career.
