Novak Djokovic has clarified his future in the sport after losing in the Wimbledon semi-final.
It marked a crushing defeat for the 24-time Grand Slam champion, who was swept aside in three sets by Jannik Sinner.
In yet another defeat to the Italian, he continually gave his all, but could not match the raw physicality and relentlessness of his young opponent.
As the years go by and his fitness dwindles, they are only growing stronger.
With that in mind, there was a tinge of fear that likely washed over every tennis fan as Novak Djokovic waved goodbye to Centre Court. Was this to be his last outing in an arena that has brought him so much success?
He’s now sought to offer an update.
Novak Djokovic clarifies his future in the sport
Speaking in his post-match press conference, the Serbian was as affable and insightful as ever.
After all, win or lose, he remains composed and interesting, offering deep and thoughtful answers to all manner of questions.
Naturally, the question of his future in the sport arose, with one reporter even asking if he ever plans to return to Wimbledon.
His answer was short, but oh so sweet for tennis fans: “I would be sad, but hopefully it’s not my last match on Centre Court. I’m not planning to finish my Wimbledon career today. I’m planning to come back, definitely at least one more time.”
Novak Djokovic continues to be thwarted by Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner
Djokovic continues to be ever-present at the apex of tennis, but there are two figures who continually thwart him from claiming the elusive prizes that would complete his career.
Ironically, it is this duo who will face off in Sunday’s final: Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner.
Also asked about them, and how he plans to compete with their youth and unbridled talent, the 38-year-old made a startling admission, given what he had said to shut down any retirement rumours.
He claimed: “As much as I’m taking care of it, the reality hits me right now, the last year and a half like never before, to be honest. It’s tough for me to accept that because I feel like when I’m fresh and fit, I can still play very good tennis. I’ve proven that this year.
“Playing best of 5 particularly this year has been a real struggle for me physically. The longer the tournament goes, the worse the condition gets. I reached the semis of every slam this year. I have to play Sinner or Alcaraz. These guys are fit, young, sharp. I feel like I’m going into the match with the tank half empty. It’s not possible to win the match like that. It is what it is.
“It’s one of those things you have to accept and embrace in some way. Deal with reality the way it is and try to make the most out of it.”
Alas, tennis will move on, with Sunday’s final already gathering excitement. Alcaraz has rated Sinner’s level ahead of the match, with Sinner giving his thoughts on facing Alcaraz again in return.
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