Novak Djokovic Makes Interesting Stan Wawrinka Admission While Addressing the Retirement Question
Novak Djokovic is currently at the Hellenic Championship in Athens, where he recently beat Alejandro Tabilo.
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Novak Djokovic and Stanislas Wawrinka (via X)
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Novak Djokovic has achieved nearly everything a tennis player can throughout a career. The Serbian star has won 24 Grand Slam titles, 40 Masters 1000 trophies, and 7 ATP Finals, among many other accolades.
However, questions about his retirement have become increasingly common. He even mentioned Stanislas Wawrinka in this context, noting that his longtime rival faces the same inquiries. Djokovic said on Greek media SDNA:
Have I ever considered retiring? It’s crossed my mind, more than once, that’s for sure. But I refuse to talk about it. I want to enjoy moments like today’s (Tuesday) on the court. I think I’ve earned the right to play as much as I want and whenever I want. Stan Wawrinka often gets asked the same question, and I completely agree with him when he says, ‘Leave me alone. Let me play, let me enjoy myself.’
Djokovic and Wawrinka were two of the biggest storylines in tennis during the 2010s. Although Djokovic dominated that era, Wawrinka ensured he wouldn’t be forgotten. Wawrinka has claimed 3 Grand Slam titles, defeating Djokovic in 2 of them. Now, as both players near the twilight of their careers, fans wonder when these two legends will finally hang up their racquets.
Novak Djokovic breaks losing curse against Alejandro Tabilo
Serbian tennis legend Novak Djokovic defeated Alejandro Tabilo for the first time to reach the quarterfinals of the Hellenic Championship in Athens. The Serbian star continued his impressive form on hard courts in the Greek capital.
Tabilo, ranked 89th in the world, had previously beaten Djokovic twice on clay courts. Those victories came in Rome last year and Monte Carlo earlier this April.
In Athens, Djokovic was dominant from start to finish, hitting 13 aces and facing only one break point. He took the opening set 7-6 (7-3) after a close battle before racing through the second set 6-1. The 38-year-old broke Tabilo’s serve early in the second set to take control of the match. He sealed victory in one hour and 39 minutes, marking the 225th tour-level quarterfinal of his career.
Has Novak Djokovic ditched Serbia for Greece?
Former World No.1 Novak Djokovic opened up about his decision to move his family from Serbia to Athens. The tennis star spoke after his first ATP match against Alejandro Tabilo in Belgrade, Athens. His relocation came following public backlash in Serbia after he expressed support for protesters opposing President Aleksandar Vučić.
The 24-time Grand Slam champion began his campaign at the Hellenic Championship with a hard-fought 7-6, 6-7 victory over Tabilo. The match marked Djokovic’s first professional appearance in Greece, held on Tuesday, November 4, 2025.
During the post-match press conference, Djokovic grew emotional when discussing his move. He said that Greece had become very special to him and added, “Athens is in my heart.” His words reflected a deep sense of connection to his new home.
It feels really at home, playing in Athens. A few months ago when I came here with my family, I was very excited because I have always loved Greece. More than the recognition for my tennis achievement, I feel people have approached me in the most friendly and humane way, and that is something that has touched my heart. Athens is in my heart.
With this win, Djokovic advanced to the quarterfinals, where he will face Nuno Borges. It will be the first meeting between the two players on the ATP tour.
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