Novak Djokovic is cutting back on the number of tournaments he participates in, including skipping his home event in Belgrade this year.
He has always been selective about his schedule, focusing on longevity rather than playing every possible event.
Since turning 30, his strategy seems to be working well, and other players are starting to follow his lead.
| Name | Age | Points | Stats 2024 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🇷🇸 Novak Djokovic | 37 | 8,360 | 18 - 6 |
Djokovic’s Current Plans:
This year, there will be an ATP 250 tournament in Belgrade, but Djokovic won’t be there in November. However, he’s still competing at home by playing in the Davis Cup this week.
“Weeks like these represent another motivation,” Djokovic said. “They inspire me to keep going; they awake those butterflies in my belly.”
Fans might think it’s smart for him to choose only the most important events now.
“In order to prolong my career,” he added, “I need to enjoy and choose wisely which tournaments I am going to play.”
Although he’s happy to be back home and playing tennis, Djokovic won’t participate in the Belgrade Open from November 3rd to 9th. He didn’t explain why but it’s likely due to scheduling choices.
After the Davis Cup, he’ll head to Sofia for an exhibition match with Grigor Dimitrov and then off to Shanghai. Also, he confirmed that he won’t be chasing the ATP Finals either.
Currently ninth in the ATP Race rankings, there’s a chance he won’t make it into the Top 8 unless he finishes strong this year. But given his selective approach, it’s unlikely he’ll push himself too hard.
“I am not playing; that won’t change,” Djokovic stated. “After that, I will see what I am going to do next.” He mentioned how his schedule used to be planned six months ahead but now is more spontaneous.
“Firstly,” he said, “I need physical, emotional and mental rest before deciding what comes next.”
Djokovic feels there’s little left for him outside of representing Serbia and competing in Grand Slams since he’s already won all other tournaments. The Grand Slams further enhance his legacy while representing Serbia is a matter of patriotism for him.
What do you think about Djokovic’s decision?
