Novak Djokovic looks forward to taking a ‘physical, mental, and emotional break’ before creating his tennis objectives

Novak Djokovic has confirmed that he's not retiring from the sport just yet, but would need time off to reassess his future.

Novak Djokovic looks forward to taking a ‘physical, mental, and emotional break’ before creating his tennis objectives

Novak Djokovic (via X)

24-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic was asked about his future in the game after his Davis Cup singles win on Saturday (September 14). The Serbian claimed that he would need a break from the game to decide his future goals.

Djokovic addressed the media after giving Serbia a 2-0 lead against Greece in the Davis Cup Group I playoffs. He reflected on his future in tennis and indicated that he would reassess his schedule.

What I need now is a physical, mental, and emotional break in order to decide what next, how much and where [to play].
Novak Djokovic said in his post-match press conference (H/T SportsKlub)

Djokovic’s future in the game has been uncertain, especially since winning the Olympic singles gold in Paris. After conquering the Paris Olympics, the 37-year-old has now won everything there is to win in the sport, leading many to believe that it’s only a matter of time before he retires.

However, in his post-tournament press conference, Djokovic denied any rumors of retirement. He even mentioned that he won’t rule out participating in the LA Olympics in 2028.

Novak Djokovic admits having more pressure at the US Open than the Paris Olympics

Novak Djokovic admitted that he felt more pressure at the US Open than at the Paris Olympics. The Serbian arrived in New York after winning Olympic gold in Paris but couldn’t replicate that success at the US Open.

Novak Djokovic
Novak Djokovic (Image via X) 
I felt that it wasn’t me on the court, that I was not well-prepared, so I felt more additional pressure ahead of every match compared to before the finals at the Olympics. Just because of the way I felt...Tennis is an individual sport – if you don’t have a solution on a given day, that’s it, you lose. Over the years, that kept me disciplined
Novak Djokovic said at the Serbian RTS Correspondent

Despite being the defending champion, Djokovic was knocked out in the third round by Alexei Popyrin with a 6-4, 6-4, 2-6, 6-4 scoreline. His defeat means it’s been 16 years since a US Open title was last defended.

Djokovic’s loss also leaves him outside of the qualification spots for the ATP World Tour Finals. The 37-year-old is currently ninth in the race, with Jannik Sinner and Alexander Zverev already qualified.

The 2024 season marks the first time since 2017 that Djokovic failed to win any of the four Grand Slam tournaments. His only major tournaments left to defend this year are the BNP Paribas Masters and the Nitto ATP World Tour Finals.