Amid the electric atmosphere of Roland Garros, where the red clay courts bear witness to tennis history, Aryna Sabalenka, the world’s top-ranked women’s player, has made a bold prediction about Novak Djokovic’s enduring career. Following her dominant 6-2, 6-3 third-round victory over Serbia’s Olga Danilovic on May 30, 2025, the Belarusian star took a moment to champion her friend and idol, asserting that the 38-year-old Serbian legend could play professionally for “another two, three years.” Her comments, delivered with conviction and a touch of defiance, come as Djokovic, the 24-time Grand Slam champion, continues to fend off retirement speculation while powering through the French Open with characteristic grit.
Sabalenka’s prediction is rooted in her admiration for Djokovic’s physical and mental fortitude. “Look at him. He’s fit, strong. Mentally, physically, I think he’s ready to play, I don’t know, another two, three years,” she declared in her post-match press conference, her words carrying the weight of someone who has shared the court with him in exhibitions like the 2022 World Tennis League in Dubai. The Belarusian, who has called Djokovic a “funny and nice guy,” sees no signs of the Serbian slowing down, despite a challenging 2024-25 season marked by early exits in Monte Carlo and Madrid. Djokovic’s recent triumphs, including his 100th career title in Geneva and straight-set wins over Mackenzie McDonald (6-3, 6-3, 6-3) and Corentin Moutet (6-3, 6-2, 7-6[1]) at Roland Garros, bolster her confidence. “Whenever he’s ready, whenever he’s healthy and fit, he’s there, and he’s playing great tennis,” she added, shutting down critics who point to his age and occasional inconsistencies.
The context of Sabalenka’s remarks is poignant. The recent retirement ceremony for Rafael Nadal, Djokovic’s greatest rival, who bowed out after the 2024 season with 14 French Open titles, left an emotional mark. The event, attended by Djokovic, Roger Federer, and Andy Murray—three of whom are now retired—underscored the end of the “Big Four” era. “It was so sad to see the ceremony, the Big Four were on the court and you understand that three of them retired. Everyone is missing their games,” Sabalenka reflected, her voice tinged with melancholy. She urged fans and media to cherish Djokovic, the last active member of that legendary quartet. “Imagine if he gonna retire tomorrow, then everyone going to be sad, no?” she said, advocating for the Serbian to continue showcasing his greatness. “You are trying to put as much pressure as you can on Novak. Leave him alone,” she added, a blunt plea to let him play without the weight of retirement rumors.
Djokovic’s 2025 Roland Garros campaign has been a testament to his resilience. Despite a blister issue during his Moutet match, he saved a set point in a thrilling third-set tiebreak, maintaining his perfect 12-0 record against French players in Paris. His next challenge is a third-round clash against Austrian qualifier Filip Misolic on May 31, a match that could propel him toward a record-extending 25th Grand Slam title. Sabalenka’s belief in his longevity is echoed by fans, with one social media post declaring, “Aryna’s right—Novak’s still got years left in him. Let’s enjoy the GOAT while he’s here!” Her prediction aligns with Djokovic’s own defiance, as he has expressed no intention of retiring soon, fueled by his Olympic gold medal in personally, I want to keep going as long as I can compete at this level,” he said after Geneva.
Sabalenka’s own journey mirrors Djokovic’s tenacity. Her rise to No. 1, cemented by titles at the 2023 and 2024 Australian Opens and the 2024 US Open, reflects her ability to overcome adversity, from personal tragedies to technical struggles with her serve. Her dominant run in Paris, dropping just 10 games in three rounds, sets her up for a fourth-round battle against Amanda Anisimova. As she chases her first French Open crown, with the women’s final set for June 7, Sabalenka’s support for Djokovic underscores a mutual respect among champions. “So let’s just let Novak to be there to show and fight and show his greatness and to inspire that generation,” she urged, highlighting his role as a beacon for players like Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner.
As Roland Garros 2025 unfolds, Sabalenka’s prediction offers a hopeful vision: Djokovic, the sport’s enduring titan, defying time for years to come. Her words, blending friendship and admiration, remind fans to savor every moment of his legacy, on clay and beyond.
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