Novak Djokovic retirement date hinted with Nick Kyrgios behind-the-scenes conversation

The tennis world is abuzz with speculation about Novak Djokovic’s future after Nick Kyrgios, the outspoken Australian star, shared insights from a private conversation that suggests the Serbian legend may be nearing the end of his storied career. At 38, Djokovic remains a towering figure in men’s tennis, with 24 Grand Slam titles and an Olympic gold medal to his name. Yet, his recent struggles against the sport’s rising stars and a revealing exchange with Kyrgios at Indian Wells have fueled discussions about how much longer the former World No. 1 will continue to compete.

Kyrgios, speaking on the *All on the Table* podcast hosted by coach Patrick Mouratoglou, recounted a moment in the Indian Wells locker room earlier this year that left him questioning Djokovic’s drive. “I asked him this at Indian Wells this year. We were in the locker room and I said, ‘Why are you here? Why are you playing?’ He just goes, ‘I don’t know,’” Kyrgios revealed. The Australian, who has developed a surprising friendship with Djokovic despite their past rivalry, sensed a shift in the Serbian’s demeanor. “That was the first time I think he misses his family a lot. I stay in touch with him all the time. I can’t see him playing for more than another year. Not again. Not the whole year again.” This candid exchange has ignited speculation that Djokovic, who has dominated tennis for over two decades, may be grappling with the emotional and physical toll of the sport.

Djokovic’s 2025 season has been a mixed bag, marked by flashes of brilliance but also signs of decline. His Olympic gold in Paris, where he defeated Carlos Alcaraz, and a title at the Geneva Open in May highlight his enduring competitiveness. However, the Serbian has not won a Grand Slam since the 2023 US Open, falling in the semi-finals of all three majors this year to Jannik Sinner and Alcaraz. His most recent defeat, a straight-sets loss to Sinner at Wimbledon (6-3, 6-3, 6-4), underscored the challenge posed by the younger generation. “It’s just age, the wear and tear of the body,” Djokovic admitted post-match, acknowledging the physical limitations that have become more pronounced. “As much as I’m taking care of it, the reality hits me right now, like never before.”

The Serbian’s emotional exit from Wimbledon, where he waved to the Centre Court crowd, sparked further retirement talk. After his French Open semi-final loss to Sinner, he hinted at the possibility of it being his last match at Roland Garros, saying, “This could have been the last match ever I played here – I don’t know. That’s why it was a bit more emotional at the end.” Yet, at Wimbledon, he pushed back against speculation, insisting, “I would be sad, but hopefully it’s not my last match on the Centre Court. I’m not planning to finish my Wimbledon career today. I’m planning to come back, definitely, at least one more time.” His determination to return in 2026 reflects a desire to chase a record-breaking 25th Grand Slam title, which would surpass Margaret Court’s mark.

Kyrgios, a 2022 Wimbledon finalist who lost to Djokovic in that year’s championship match, believes the Serbian’s time is limited. “I think he’s got to be finished soon. Like, come on, what more?” he said, pointing to Djokovic’s unparalleled achievements, including 10 Australian Opens, seven Wimbledons, four US Opens, and three French Opens. Kyrgios also expressed a wish for Djokovic to retire on a high note, ideally as an eight-time Wimbledon champion. “I want Novak to win Wimbledon, that would be good,” he told the UTS Tour. “And then finished. Retire here.” This sentiment was echoed by Mouratoglou, who called it “the best way” for Djokovic to exit the sport.

Djokovic’s pursuit of a 25th major is complicated by the rise of Alcaraz and Sinner, who have claimed the last seven Grand Slam titles between them. “Alcaraz and Sinner are going to be carrying the torch for the next 10 to 15 years,” Kyrgios predicted, highlighting the generational shift in men’s tennis. Djokovic himself acknowledged their dominance, noting after Wimbledon, “Alcaraz and Sinner are definitely several levels above everyone right now.” His physical struggles, including a muscular issue and breathing difficulties during a Wimbledon match against Alex de Minaur, have raised concerns about his ability to compete at the highest level.

Despite these challenges, Djokovic’s passion for tennis remains evident. “I love tennis, and I still love picking up a racket,” he said before Wimbledon. “The kid in me who fell in love with tennis is still there; I still feel that connection.” His brief doubles partnership with Kyrgios at the 2025 Brisbane International, where they won their opening match, showcased their camaraderie and hinted at potential future collaborations, with Djokovic suggesting a possible reunion at the Belgrade Open. For now, as he prepares for the US Open starting August 24, Djokovic remains focused on adding to his legacy, even as retirement rumors swirl. Whether 2026 marks the end of his remarkable journey, as Kyrgios predicts, or Djokovic defies the odds once more, his final chapter promises to captivate the tennis world.

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