Former Russian Star Questions Novak Djokovic’s Desire to Play at the LA Olympics in 2028

Novak Djokovic won the Olympic Gold medal at the Paris Olympics in 2024.

Former Russian Star Questions Novak Djokovic’s Desire to Play at the LA Olympics in 2028

Novak Djokovic (Image via X/Danny)

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Novak Djokovic’s future in tennis remains a major topic of discussion. As 2026 draws closer, questions continue to surround how much longer he will compete at the highest level.

Former WTA star Nadia Petrova has openly questioned his long-term plans. She expressed surprise at Djokovic targeting the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. Petrova shared her views in an interview with Šampionat.

Those Games are still a long way off. She already won gold in the previous ones, and honestly, I don’t understand why she wants to play in the next ones too. He has played great matches this year, but physically he has been behind Alcaraz and Sinner. And with each passing year it will get more difficult for him.

At 39, few would blame Djokovic for stepping away from the sport. He has already won every major title. There is little left for him to prove. Still, retirement talk continues to follow him. Many predict 2026 could mark the end of his career. Yet Djokovic appears motivated to keep pushing forward.

Russian star names the players who can threaten Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz in 2026

Nadia Petrova was also asked about the players who could topple Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz in 2026. The former Russian star had a few names up her sleeve. Petrova said:

I really like how Ben Shelton plays. He broke into the top ten this year and I hope he continues to improve. I also wouldn’t rule out De Minaur; he’s a great player and could reach a major final. There’s Bublik, who can beat anyone if he’s motivated. And, of course, Daniil Medvedev . He’s already won a Grand Slam and reached a final. He has a new coach and can certainly achieve much more.

Carlos Alcaraz, Jannik Sinner (3)
Carlos Alcaraz, Jannik Sinner (Image via X/Jannik Sinner HQ)

Sinner and Alcaraz are undoubtedly the faces of men’s tennis at the moment. The duo have won the last eight Grand Slam titles, with Sinner also collecting the last two ATP Finals titles.

Sinner and Alcaraz have finished the last two seasons as World No.1s. This year, the race for World No.1 went all the way till the ATP Finals, with the Spaniard clinching it after winning three group stage matches. However, it was Sinner who ended the season in the best possible manner. After losing the US Open final, he won titles in Japan, Vienna, Paris and then Turin.

Novak Djokovic to warm up for the Australian Open in Adelaide

Serbian legend Novak Djokovic will begin his 2025 season at the Adelaide International. He is aiming for an 11th Australian Open title. He is also chasing a record 25th Grand Slam trophy.

Novak Djokovic
Novak Djokovic (Image via X/Swish Tennis)

The 38-year-old Serbian is currently ranked World No. 4. He has played in Adelaide twice before. He won the title on both occasions, in 2007 and 2023.

The ATP-WTA event will run from January 12 to 17. It takes place just before the Australian Open. The Melbourne Grand Slam starts on January 18.

Djokovic has reduced his schedule in recent seasons. Even so, he won titles this year in Geneva and Athens. Other players in Adelaide include Jack Draper, Tommy Paul, Joao Fonseca, and Stefanos Tsitsipas.

Also Read: Coco Gauff’s Ex-Coach Recommends Two Names to Replace Juan Carlos Ferrero as Carlos Alcaraz’s Coach