**Novak Djokovic’s Latest Move Prioritizes Family Over Paris Masters, Sparking Retirement Speculation**
After more than two decades of relentless pursuit of records, accolades, and international acclaim, Novak Djokovic appears to be shifting his focus towards his family. Despite continuing to break records and cement his place as one of the greatest tennis players of all time, the Serbian icon seems increasingly devoted to spending time with his wife and children. His latest decision, an unexpected withdrawal from the upcoming Paris Masters, suggests that Djokovic may be choosing family over competition—a move that has sparked fresh discussions about his future on the professional tennis circuit.
Djokovic, who recently finished as runner-up in Shanghai to Italy’s rising star Jannik Sinner and secured third place at the *Six Kings Slam* exhibition in Riyadh, was widely expected to participate in the prestigious Paris Masters, where he has historically performed well. However, reports from *Sport Club* indicate that Djokovic has withdrawn from the Bercy event. While no official statement has been made, it is believed that Djokovic opted out of the tournament to spend more time with his family, particularly with his wife Jelena and their two children, Stefan and Tara.
This choice is in line with Djokovic’s recent reflections on the challenges of balancing his family life with the demands of a grueling tennis career. In a candid interview with *LA NACION* before traveling to Buenos Aires for an exhibition match against Argentine tennis great Juan Martin del Potro, Djokovic opened up about his desire to be more present for his children. “It is important they see me as a father in the real sense of the word, as a father who is at home, with them, who follows the routine, the time to go to bed, to get up, take them to school, talk to them about life, play with them. That’s the person I want to be for them, not the father ‘Novak Djokovic’ who is outside,” he said.
Djokovic has often credited his family for their unwavering support throughout his career, acknowledging the vital role they have played in his success. His wife Jelena and their children frequently travel with him, allowing Djokovic to balance his family life with his career, though it is often a delicate act. In the same interview, Djokovic spoke about the toll his touring schedule has taken on his ability to be a hands-on father, which may explain why he is now taking steps to spend more quality time at home.
Djokovic’s decision to withdraw from the Paris Masters may also hint at a larger shift in priorities as he enters the twilight of his career. While still at the peak of his powers on the court, Djokovic has accomplished virtually everything there is to achieve in tennis. He has won 24 Grand Slam titles, an Olympic bronze medal, and is just one title away from reaching the milestone of 100 ATP titles—an achievement that only a handful of players have reached in the Open Era. However, as his father Srdjan Djokovic recently revealed, there may be growing pressure from within his family for him to step away from the game.
**Srdjan Djokovic Calls for His Son’s Retirement in 2024**
In a recent interview, Srdjan Djokovic expressed his belief that his son should retire after the 2024 season, citing the physical and mental toll that tennis has taken on him. “My wish as a father – I think for some time that he should have stopped working this extremely difficult job. It’s physically and mentally challenging and very demanding,” Srdjan said. He went on to add that, from his perspective, Djokovic had already fulfilled his family’s hopes and dreams nearly a decade ago. “As far as my wishes for him go, he has already fulfilled them all seven-eight years ago. The rest is this amazing bonus.”
Srdjan’s remarks have added fuel to the ongoing speculation about when Djokovic might choose to retire. Having surpassed his contemporaries Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal in terms of Grand Slam victories and other significant records, Djokovic has little left to prove on the tennis court. His father’s comments suggest that the Serbian star’s future lies beyond the world of tennis, with the possibility of him focusing on other ventures and responsibilities after retirement.
Srdjan also hinted that Djokovic’s post-tennis life could be equally remarkable, emphasizing that tennis is only one part of his life. “Tennis is only one segment of his life, not his whole life. I expect him to be recognized for the things he will do after his career ends as well, after he leaves the tennis world, which I hope will happen next year,” Srdjan concluded.
**What’s Next for Djokovic?**
As Djokovic steps back from the Paris Masters, his future participation in the remaining events of the 2024 season is uncertain. Fans are eagerly awaiting confirmation of whether he will compete in the ATP Finals in Turin, where he could pursue an unprecedented eighth title. If he does participate, Djokovic would have the chance to end his season on a high note, adding yet another record to his extraordinary career. However, if he decides to sit out the ATP Finals, it could mark a more significant pause before he resumes competition.
There is growing speculation that Djokovic may choose to take an extended break, perhaps returning in 2025 for the Australian Open, a tournament he has dominated in recent years. The Australian Open is, after all, the Grand Slam where Djokovic has historically enjoyed the most success, having won the title a record 10 times. If Djokovic does return, it could serve as a fitting platform for him to make a final push for more titles before potentially calling time on his illustrious career.
**A Family Man First**
For now, it seems Djokovic is focusing on his most important role—being a father and husband. His withdrawal from the Paris Masters, along with his reflective comments about wanting to be more present in his children’s lives, highlights his desire to be there for his family after years of prioritizing his career. Whether this marks the beginning of the end for Djokovic’s time on the professional tour remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: Novak Djokovic is serious about making time for the people who have supported him every step of the way.
As one of the greatest athletes in history, Djokovic’s legacy in tennis is already secure. And while fans may want to see him continue playing for as long as possible, his decision to prioritize his family is a reminder that even the greatest champions eventually need to take a step back and enjoy the fruits of their labor with the people they love most.