American tennis legend Andy Roddick recently expressed his thoughts on Novak Djokovic’s comments after the Serbian’s loss to Jannik Sinner in the final of the Shanghai Rolex Masters. Djokovic, widely regarded as one of the greatest players of all time, had been reflecting on his 2024 season, describing it as one of the most challenging years he’s had in a while. While most players would be thrilled with the kind of results Djokovic produced this year, the 24-time Grand Slam champion called it his “worst” season in recent memory. His words resonated deeply with Roddick, who offered both a humorous and insightful take on the Serbian’s reflections.
Djokovic’s assessment of his 2024 campaign came after a hard-fought loss to Sinner in Shanghai, where he acknowledged that the year had fallen below the incredibly high standards he had set for himself. Despite reaching the semi-finals of the Australian Open, the final at Wimbledon, and securing a gold medal at the Paris 2024 Olympics, Djokovic felt it was time to acknowledge that even the greatest players face periods of decline. Speaking candidly at a post-match press conference, he admitted, “It had to happen sooner or later. I’m no longer 30, and I understand that my body and my game are evolving. But I’m still proud of my accomplishments, especially winning Olympic gold in Paris.”
For most players, Djokovic’s accomplishments in 2024 would represent the pinnacle of a career, but the Serbian has set an impossibly high bar for himself over the years. His ability to reach Grand Slam finals and claim prestigious titles has been a hallmark of his dominance in the sport. It’s no surprise, then, that when Djokovic refers to this season as subpar, it would strike a chord with those who have marveled at his longevity and success.
Andy Roddick, himself a former World No. 1 and a major rival of the “Big Three” during his playing days, couldn’t help but react to Djokovic’s words. In a light-hearted but pointed commentary, Roddick quipped, “Djokovic talked about his worst year when he reached the semi-finals of the Australian Open, then the final of Wimbledon, won Olympic gold at Paris 2024, and reached the final of the Shanghai Rolex Masters last week. Worst year? It would be the best year of most of our careers!”
Roddick’s humor highlighted the massive gulf between Djokovic’s expectations and those of most professional tennis players. The American, who himself enjoyed a decorated career that included a US Open title and multiple appearances in Grand Slam finals, understands just how rare Djokovic’s consistency and success have been. Roddick added, “He’s no longer 30, and there are two monsters in front of him,” alluding to Djokovic’s competition with younger stars like Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner, who are quickly becoming the faces of the next generation.
Indeed, Djokovic’s season, while perhaps not up to his usual standards, has still been marked by significant achievements. His gold medal at the Paris 2024 Olympics was particularly meaningful, as it was the one major title missing from his trophy cabinet. Winning an Olympic gold for his country has long been a career goal for Djokovic, and in Paris, he finally realized that dream. Yet, despite this crowning moment, his hunger for more success at Grand Slams and the ATP tour remains as fierce as ever.
During the on-court interview after his loss to Sinner in Shanghai, Djokovic was gracious in defeat, acknowledging the support he received throughout the tournament and paying tribute to the young Italian star who bested him in the final. “I want to say thank you for the support you gave me during the week. There were always a lot of you at the exit of the hotel, and it’s always a pleasure to play here. I’ve had a lot of success in China in my career, and I’m happy to be back,” Djokovic said, addressing the Shanghai crowd that has long been one of his favorite audiences.
Turning his attention to Sinner, Djokovic was magnanimous, praising the 23-year-old for his performance. “You were too good for me today, Jannik. You deserved to win this title,” Djokovic said, offering congratulations to both Sinner and his team. Djokovic’s comments reflected his deep respect for the Italian, who is widely regarded as one of the most talented young players on the tour and a future Grand Slam contender.
In a light-hearted moment, Djokovic also gave a shout-out to Roger Federer, who was watching the match from the stands. “I also want to say hello to Roger Federer; it’s nice to see you here. I’m not used to seeing you in the stands—it’s the first time I’ve played a match with you watching and not on the court. Thank you for coming,” Djokovic remarked, drawing laughter from the crowd and acknowledging the presence of his long-time rival and friend.
Djokovic’s graciousness extended to Carlos Alcaraz and his coach, Juan Carlos Ferrero, who were also in attendance. He mentioned feeling a bit of pressure with both Federer and Alcaraz watching from the sidelines, but he ultimately thanked everyone involved in the tournament for their efforts. “Thanks to the organizers, because this tournament always makes us feel special,” Djokovic concluded.
Despite calling 2024 a difficult year, Djokovic’s achievements, including his run to the Shanghai final and his continued presence in the upper echelons of tennis, reaffirm his place among the sport’s all-time greats. While players like Sinner and Alcaraz represent the future, Djokovic’s influence and competitive spirit remain a significant part of the present. And as Roddick pointed out with humor, Djokovic’s “worst year” would be a dream season for nearly anyone else on the ATP Tour.