At 38, Novak Djokovic continues to defy the odds, and his stirring performance at the 2025 French Open has reignited belief that the Serbian legend could claim an eighth Wimbledon title in July. Despite a heartbreaking semifinal loss to world No. 1 Jannik Sinner at Roland Garros, Djokovic’s resilience and skill on the clay courts of Paris have convinced former world No. 1 Andy Roddick that the 24-time Grand Slam champion remains a formidable force on grass. “I am going to say this right now. Novak can win Wimbledon. I am just going to tell you,” Roddick declared on his *Served* podcast, his confidence rooted in Djokovic’s ability to find his rhythm and adapt his game to the fast-paced lawns of the All England Club.
Djokovic’s journey to the French Open semifinals was a testament to his enduring greatness. After a shaky start to the 2025 clay season, with early exits in Monte Carlo and Madrid, the Serbian star skipped the Italian Open to focus on preparation. His decision paid dividends in Geneva, where he won his 100th ATP Tour-level title, defeating players like Yannick Hanfmann and Tallon Griekspoor before falling in the semifinals. At Roland Garros, Djokovic powered through the first four rounds in straight sets, showcasing his trademark defensive prowess and precision. His quarterfinal victory over world No. 3 Alexander Zverev, a 4-6, 6-3, 6-2, 6-4 thriller, highlighted his ability to outlast younger rivals. However, Sinner’s 6-4, 7-5, 7-6(3) win in the semifinals halted Djokovic’s quest for a fourth French Open crown. Reflecting on the loss, Djokovic hinted at uncertainty about his future in Paris but quickly shifted focus to Wimbledon, saying, “Wimbledon and the US Open, yes, they are in plans. That’s all I can say right now. I feel like I want to play those two, for sure.”
Roddick’s bold prediction for Wimbledon stems from Djokovic’s unparalleled success on grass, where his seven titles and 10 final appearances rank among the greatest in the Open Era. “Nothing he does at 38 becomes easier when he steps onto a clay court,” Roddick explained. “Everything he does well at 38 gets better when he steps onto a grass court.” The faster surface, conducive to shorter rallies, suits Djokovic’s current stage of his career, amplifying his defensive skills, pinpoint serving, and ability to control points. Roddick emphasized that Djokovic’s deep run in Paris, despite a challenging season marred by a knee injury in 2024, signals his readiness for a Grand Slam. “Novak in round four is not the Novak you meet in round one,” Roddick noted, highlighting the Serb’s ability to elevate his game as tournaments progress.
Djokovic’s 2025 season has been a rollercoaster. A meniscus tear forced his withdrawal from the 2024 French Open before a quarterfinal against Casper Ruud, casting doubt on his Wimbledon participation. Yet, defying expectations, he reached the 2024 final, losing to Carlos Alcaraz in straight sets. “It is absurd that Novak was able to make the finals of this event,” Roddick said, marveling at Djokovic’s recovery from surgery with minimal preparation. This resilience, coupled with his 2025 Australian Open semifinal run—where he defeated Alcaraz before retiring against Zverev due to injury—underscores his ability to compete at the highest level despite physical setbacks. Roddick, a three-time Wimbledon finalist, cautioned against underestimating Djokovic, stating, “Bet against the greats at your own peril.”
The Serbian’s hunger for a record-extending 25th Grand Slam remains palpable. His 2024 Olympic gold medal, a career-defining achievement, and his 2023 US Open triumph demonstrate his relentless drive. Djokovic’s tactical acumen, praised by peers like Sinner, who called him “a very tough opponent,” makes him a perennial threat. Roddick also noted Djokovic’s strategic preparation, including practice sets with top players and an exhibition match at the Giorgio Armani Tennis Classic, which helped him gauge his readiness for Wimbledon. “I played a couple of practice sets with top players and an exhibition match which proved to me I was in a good enough state,” Djokovic said, reflecting on his 2024 Wimbledon buildup.
As Wimbledon 2025 approaches, Djokovic faces stiff competition from Alcaraz, the defending champion, and Sinner, who has split the last five majors with the Spaniard. Yet, Roddick believes Djokovic’s experience and grass-court mastery give him an edge. “He’s the best grass-court player in the world when healthy,” Roddick asserted, a sentiment echoed by others like Eugenie Bouchard, who predicted Djokovic could win two more Slams. With Andy Murray now in his coaching box, Djokovic’s meticulous preparation and mental fortitude could prove decisive. As the tennis world turns its gaze to the All England Club, Djokovic’s quest for redemption promises to captivate, with Roddick’s faith fueling anticipation for a historic triumph.
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