Novak Djokovic may be close to securing his place at the prestigious ATP Finals, but there is rising speculation that his 2024 season could already be over. Although Djokovic still holds a spot in the ATP Race’s top six, thanks to his impressive performance in this year’s Grand Slam tournaments, recent moves suggest he might not compete in Turin, Italy, even if he qualifies. The tennis legend’s withdrawal from the upcoming Paris Masters and subsequent vacation in the Maldives have fueled rumors that he’s shifting his focus away from the ATP Tour in favor of a more selective schedule, concentrating on Grand Slam events and representing Serbia.
Djokovic has been vocal about his evolving approach to the sport, revealing that his priorities have shifted away from playing in the regular ATP circuit. Now, he is focused on major tournaments, where he can continue to make his mark on tennis history. In light of his decision, former British No. 1 and US Open finalist Greg Rusedski has weighed in, offering insights into what Djokovic’s future might hold. Rusedski, an analyst on *The Tennis Channel*, recommended that Djokovic prioritize his health and suggested that he should consider sitting out the ATP Finals this year. “I think he needs to get healthy,” Rusedski said. “We still see that knee brace there, and once we don’t see that anymore, he’s back.”
Rusedski pointed out that Djokovic’s efforts in recent seasons have come at a price, especially as he balanced the demands of a full tour schedule with appearances in the Davis Cup. After winning the ATP Finals and playing for his country last year, Djokovic may have compromised his off-season preparation, an essential time for recovery and training. The French Open further complicated matters when Djokovic picked up an injury that has since lingered, likely influencing his decision to take a break this season.
According to Rusedski, Djokovic’s success going forward will depend heavily on his health, as he is still a top contender for Grand Slam titles when fully fit. “If Novak is 100% healthy, he’s in the mix to win every major again next year,” Rusedski stated. “Health is your wealth, and the older you get, the smarter you need to get. The longer he can make his off-season, the better off he’ll be for 2025.” Given Djokovic’s recent physical setbacks, Rusedski believes it would be wise for him to rest rather than pushing through another high-stakes tournament in Turin, even if he has the points to qualify.
Interestingly, Djokovic’s shift toward selectivity is not a new trend in tennis. Both Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal adjusted their schedules as they aged, carefully choosing which tournaments to play in and prioritizing recovery. Djokovic, who has studied his peers’ trajectories closely, is following a similar path. Rusedski noted Djokovic’s awareness of his competition and his need to stay in peak physical form to take on emerging stars like Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz. As the Serbian icon looks toward extending his dominance, he may focus on targeted appearances that allow him to preserve his energy for the biggest stages.
Despite playing fewer tournaments, Djokovic’s ranking points this season highlight his exceptional level. His runs to the semi-final in the Australian Open and the Wimbledon final are testaments to his talent and resilience, keeping him comfortably within the ATP’s top six. “It just shows you the greatness of Novak,” Rusedski remarked. “He has done everything in our sport, and if you said to him this year, you can have two of three majors or the Olympic gold medal, he’d take the gold medal.” Djokovic’s mindset now seems focused on cementing his legacy, setting sights on rare achievements like an Olympic gold, which has eluded him so far.
Rusedski also commented on Djokovic’s surprising performance at Wimbledon. Battling through pain and uncertainty, he reached the final, proving his competitive spirit is alive and well. “You mentioned him reaching the Wimbledon final. I was shocked he played,” Rusedski shared. “I saw him practicing at Wimbledon a week before, and I thought he was just using it as prep for the Olympics, but he got to the final on one and a half legs. That’s what a great champion he is.”
Looking to next season, Rusedski suggested that a new coaching addition could add extra motivation for Djokovic. Following his split from longtime coach Goran Ivanisevic, Djokovic has been working with temporary coaches. Rusedski sees a more permanent, high-caliber coach as a potential source of fresh insights and guidance. “The one thing I would say with Novak is I would love to see him hire a world-class coach,” Rusedski explained. “The world-class coach is only there to give him strong opinions. Because what are you going to tell a guy who has won 24 majors and an Olympic gold? You need somebody with a strong voice in the camp to work together with Novak.”
Rusedski’s remarks underscore a vital point for Djokovic as he continues his career. While Djokovic’s extraordinary achievements speak for themselves, he is keenly aware of the physical and mental demands that come with maintaining his position as one of the sport’s most decorated players. For Djokovic, the coming months will be a strategic balancing act between rest, preparation, and competition. Whether he competes in the ATP Finals this season or not, Djokovic’s legacy is already firmly established, and he has his sights set on achieving more milestones, albeit through a more calculated approach.