For over two decades, Novak Djokovic has made a habit of defying logic, breaking records that once seemed untouchable. But 2025 has been a testing year for the 38-year-old Serbian superstar—his body, once an unbreakable fortress, has shown cracks. Injuries have kept him off the court for long stretches, sparking whispers about whether the end might finally be near. Yet, amid the speculation, one voice in the locker room stood firm in the 24-time Grand Slam champion’s defense, and his name is Taylor Fritz!

The American star has crossed paths with Djokovic eleven times in his career, and guess what? He’s yet to open his account against the Serb. Fritz is one of those players who has seen how lethal Djokovic can be on the opposite side of the net. Even this year, he was defeated by Nole in a four-set thriller at the QF of the US Open. Currently ranked fifth in the world, Djokovic hasn’t had the season as per his standards (titles won: 1, win-loss record: 35-11). But despite all this, Fritz refuses to buy into the narrative of decline.

Earlier this year, seeing Novak Djokovic’s exit from the Madrid Open, Aussie legend Rennae Stubbs said, “I worry the motivation is gone.” Now, seeing his constant struggles with injuries, Stubbs stated that Djokovic might decide to call it quits after the 2026 AO. But Taylor Fritz has a different opinion on this. In a recent interview with Tennis 365, Fritz insisted there is no reason for Djokovic to consider walking away from the sport. He said, “He hasn’t really shown too many signs of slowing down. He obviously has had a great year, semis at every Grand Slam. It’s tough to even think about him retiring or being done soon when he is producing the level he is producing.”

Novak Djokovic has been affected by injuries or some other sickness since the start of the 2024 season:

• 2024 United Cup: Right wrist issues.
• 2024 Geneva Open: Stomach bug.
• 2024 French Open: Right Knee.
• 2025 AO: Left Hamstring.
• 2025 Miami Open: Right Eye.
• 2025 Wimbledon: Leg.
• 2025 Shanghai Masters: Sickness, left leg, hip, and back issues.

The Serb was spotted receiving treatment for his hip and back issues during his SF match against Valentin Vacherot at the Shanghai Masters. He lost that match by 6-3,6-4 and later on, when he was asked to talk about his physical condition, he said, “No. Next question, please.”

Novak Djokovic’s journey has never followed a straight path. Every setback—whether physical or emotional—has only fueled his comeback stories. Let’s now take a glimpse at his performance this season.

So, Novak Djokovic has played a total of 12 tournaments this year, and as things stand, he could possibly be seen in action at a handful of tournaments, and that includes the Six Kings Slam exhibition and the new-look ATP 250 tournament in Athens, which is set to take place in early November.

Djokovic is yet to confirm his participation in the Paris Masters and the ATP Finals. So, we’ve to wait a bit to know how many more tournaments he’s going to play this season. But talking about nearing the end of his tennis career, what do others in the tennis world have to say about this, and what responses has he given to them in the past?

Novak Djokovic’s thoughts about his retirement speculations

Even last year, there were some speculations about Novak Djokovic’s retirement. For example, in July 2024, he sent a blunt message to those pushing the narrative that it’s time for him to walk away from pro tennis. He said, “I still enjoy competition and will keep going until I don’t enjoy it anymore.” Then, a few months later, during an interview with Lanacion, he yet again addressed them, saying, “I am sorry for those who want me to retire, but they will still have to see me for a little while longer. I feel I can win a few more Grand Slams.”

However, this year, his tone has been a bit different. For example, after his early exit from the Indian Wells, Djokovic admitted, “Things are different obviously for me the last couple of years. I’ve been struggling to play on the desired level.” Although there have been instances where he claimed the “desire is there,” and he believes he still has it in his legs, hands, or arms to play against youngsters like Jannik Sinner or Carlos Alcaraz.

But at the same time, Novak Djokovic has also admitted that it has been a new “challenge mentally” for him these days. In March this year, during an interview, he even admitted that he feels a bit “unmotivated” and “less inspired” to travel and play.

Now, with all these comments and his below-par performance in the 2025 season, renowned British broadcaster David Law made a very interesting statement. He hinted Novak Djokovic may retire at the 2026 Wimbledon.

But the tennis world has mixed thoughts on Djokovic’s future. For instance, just a few months ago, the Serb’s close friend and former rival, Juan Martín del Potro, claimed that he thinks Djokovic still can win many majors. So, this is a long debate! But what are your own opinions on the future of Djokovic’s tennis career?

Written by

Sayantan Roy

Sayantan Roy is a seasoned tennis journalist at EssentiallySports. He brings a deep tactical understanding to his coverage, breaking down head-to-head records, match dynamics, and on-court strategies with precision. For more than two years, Sayantan has been a key member of the Live Events desk, delivering real-time insights and data-backed predictions for the platform’s Matchday Preview section. His analytical approach has sparked editorial debates and drawn recognition from respected tennis voices, including commentator and analyst Olly_Tennis. Combining his experience in writing with a passion for insightful sports journalism, Sayantan’s work serves as a trusted reference point for tennis fans around the world.

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Edited by

Shrabana Sengupta