In a significant shift, tennis legend Novak Djokovic has announced that he is scaling back his participation in regular ATP tournaments, choosing to prioritize Grand Slam events and representing Serbia. The 24-time Grand Slam champion, currently outside the qualifying spots for the ATP Finals, stated that the season-ending tournament is no longer a priority for him.
Speaking after helping Serbia secure a 3-1 win over Greece in the Davis Cup, Djokovic revealed that his approach to scheduling has become more spontaneous. Unlike in past years when he would meticulously plan his calendar months in advance, Djokovic now takes a more relaxed approach, focusing on rest and recuperation.
“Torino is not my goal at all,” Djokovic said, referring to the ATP Finals in Turin. “I’m not chasing rankings or the ATP Finals anymore. My main priorities are playing for the national team and the Grand Slams. Everything else is less important.”
Djokovic, who has played only nine tournaments this year, will compete in the Shanghai Masters in October and has two exhibition events lined up, including a match against Juan Martin del Potro in December. However, it’s uncertain whether he will add any official tournaments to his calendar for the rest of the year.
The 37-year-old emphasized the need for physical, emotional, and mental recovery as key factors in deciding his future participation in tournaments. Representing Serbia, he said, still provides the motivation he needs to keep playing, even as his career winds down.
This shift marks a new chapter for Djokovic, who has completed a career Golden Slam and is no longer driven by the rankings race that once defined his career.
