Taylor Fritz Plays Down Novak Djokovic’s Retirement Talk After his Performances in Grand Slams This Season

Novak Djokovic recently beat Taylor Fritz in the US Open quarterfinals.

Taylor Fritz Plays Down Novak Djokovic’s Retirement Talk After his Performances in Grand Slams This Season

Novak Djokovic and Taylor Fritz (image via AP Photo)

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Taylor Fritz has defended Novak Djokovic amid speculation about the Serbian’s future in tennis. The American believes talk of Djokovic’s decline is unfounded and insists the 24-time Grand Slam winner still has plenty to offer.

Fritz recently faced Djokovic in the US Open quarter-finals, where he witnessed firsthand the level of intensity and skill the 38-year-old can still produce. Although Djokovic eventually lost to Carlos Alcaraz in the semi-finals, his performance proved he remains highly competitive. Fritz said in an interview with Tennis365:

I haven’t seen any signs of decline in his tennis. Reaching the semifinals of all Grand Slams is a great record; he maintains the motivation and the necessary level to compete. Honestly, it’s hard for me to think that he might retire soon seeing his performance this season, because he also loves this sport.

After that defeat, Djokovic admitted he sometimes questions his ability to keep up with younger rivals like Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner in long, best-of-five matches. His comments sparked debate over whether retirement could be near.

However, Fritz dismissed those concerns, pointing out that Djokovic reached the semi-finals at all four Grand Slams this season. He said such consistency shows that the Serbian remains one of the game’s elite players, far from finished.

Taylor Fritz maintains dominance against Alexander Zverev

The second edition of the Six Kings Slam began with a dominant display from Taylor Fritz, who comfortably defeated Alexander Zverev in a one-sided opening match. The encounter lacked suspense as the American controlled play from start to finish.

Taylor Fritz US Open 2025 Hugo Boss headband
Taylor Fritz weaaring his Hugo Boss headband upside down (image via Imagn Images)

Zverev, who has been struggling for form in recent months, was unable to challenge Fritz’s consistency and power. The German’s errors and lack of rhythm made it an uphill battle throughout the contest.

Fritz sealed a straight-sets victory, winning 6-3, 6-4, to advance to the semi-finals. His serve and baseline game proved too strong, showcasing the confidence that has carried him into the tournament.

With this win, Fritz sets up a much-anticipated semifinal clash against world No. 1 Carlos Alcaraz. Based on their recent performances, tomorrow’s match is expected to deliver far more excitement and intensity.

Novak Djokovic gives update on his Shanghai injury

Novak Djokovic has played down concerns about his fitness ahead of the Six Kings Slam in Riyadh. When asked about his condition, the 24-time Grand Slam champion said there are all kinds of things, but we are pushing hard. His words hinted that he is managing physical issues rather than fully fit, yet he remains determined to step on court and compete. Djokovic said to a journalist:

Well, there are all kinds of things, but we are pushing hard, we push.

Novak Djokovic (via X/Olly Tennis)
Novak Djokovic (via X/Olly Tennis)

The Serbian star returns to Riyadh for the second edition of the Netflix-backed exhibition, which offers a massive $6 million prize for the winner. Last year, Djokovic called it a great opportunity to test ourselves against the best and to entertain the fans. He will once again join Carlos Alcaraz, Jannik Sinner, and Alexander Zverev in what has quickly become one of tennis’s most lucrative and high-profile events.

Djokovic’s build-up, however, has been far from smooth. At the Shanghai Masters, he battled fatigue and body issues, taking several medical timeouts in the heat before losing to Monaco’s Valentin Vacherot in the semi-finals. The loss, along with his visible discomfort, raised questions about whether he would be ready for the Riyadh showdown.

Although he has taken a short break to recover, doubts remain over whether Djokovic’s body can still endure the physical demands of elite tennis at 38. According to injury prevention experts, he may be pushing himself too hard and risking more damage instead of allowing his body the rest it needs.

Also Read: Novak Djokovic Opens Up on Rivalry with Rafael Nadal: “I’ve Seen Him More than my Mother”