As the 2025 French Open unfolds at Roland Garros, the tennis world is gripped by the electrifying pursuit of history, with Novak Djokovic at the heart of it all. The 38-year-old Serbian, chasing a record-breaking 25th Grand Slam title, has become a focal point of both admiration and speculation. Amid swirling rumors about his potential retirement, tennis legend Venus Williams has emerged as a staunch defender, passionately advocating for Djokovic’s continued presence in the sport. “We can’t lose him. We need him in the sport a few more years. We’ve lost Rafa, we lost Federer, we gotta keep him a little while longer,” Williams declared, her words resonating with fans and players who see Djokovic as the last pillar of a golden era in men’s tennis.
Williams, a seven-time Grand Slam champion and current TNT Sports commentator, shared her sentiments while covering the French Open, where Djokovic’s campaign for another Roland Garros title has captivated audiences. Her support for the world number six is rooted in his unparalleled legacy and enduring competitive spirit. “I’m a big Djokovic fan. I’d like to see him win his 25th title. It’d be huge,” she said, emphasizing the monumental achievement a fourth French Open crown would represent. With Roger Federer retiring in 2022 and Rafael Nadal bidding farewell in 2024, Djokovic stands as the final torchbearer of the “Big Three,” a trio that redefined tennis with their fierce rivalries and record-breaking feats. Williams’ plea reflects a broader sentiment: losing Djokovic now would leave an irreplaceable void in a sport already mourning the departure of its icons.
Djokovic’s 2025 season has been a rollercoaster, marked by flashes of brilliance and uncharacteristic struggles. His 100th career title at the Geneva Open just before the French Open signaled a return to form, following a challenging year with first-round exits in Monte Carlo and Madrid. “After Geneva, I feel better, I still have a lot of ambitions, I still have high objectives,” Djokovic said, radiating determination as he began his Roland Garros campaign with a commanding 6-3, 6-3, 6-3 win over Mackenzie McDonald. Yet, the emotional weight of Nadal’s retirement ceremony, attended by Djokovic alongside Federer and Andy Murray, stirred introspection. “Honestly, I was thinking about my end of the road as well,” he admitted, reflecting on the bittersweet moment. “Part of me is proud that I’m still there, that I’m still going, but at the same time, I was, and I still am a bit sad that they’re all gone because those guys were my greatest motivations for why I competed so intensely and for so long.”
The Serbian’s pursuit of a 25th Grand Slam is fraught with challenges. A tough draw projects potential clashes with Alexander Zverev in the quarter-finals, Jannik Sinner in the semi-finals, and defending champion Carlos Alcaraz in the final. Despite a season marred by a hamstring injury that forced his retirement in the Australian Open semi-finals, Djokovic’s resilience remains undeniable. “I always look for the highest goal, to reach the finals and fight for a trophy,” he said after his Australian Open exit, a testament to his unrelenting drive. His straight-sets victory over McDonald, where he lost serve only once and hit 32 winners, showcased the precision and mental fortitude that have defined his career.
Williams’ advocacy comes at a time when Djokovic’s future is under scrutiny. Critics like Patrick Mouratoglou, former coach of Serena Williams, have questioned his motivation, suggesting he “shouldn’t even be playing” after a three-match losing streak earlier in 2025. Yet, Djokovic has dismissed retirement talk, with reports indicating he plans to compete until at least the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. “My main motivation comes from love and passion for the sport, and also the desire to keep competing,” he said after losing the Shanghai Masters final to Sinner. His recent split with temporary coach Andy Murray and a focus on Grand Slams and major events signal a strategic approach to prolonging his career.
Djokovic’s journey at Roland Garros is more than a quest for another title; it’s a testament to his defiance of age and expectations. Williams’ heartfelt support underscores his enduring impact. “It’d be huge,” she reiterated, envisioning Djokovic cementing his legacy with a 25th major. As he faces Corentin Moutet in the second round, the tennis world watches, hoping to see the “Joker” continue to defy the odds. With the retirements of Nadal, Federer, and Murray, Djokovic carries the weight of an era, and as Williams passionately argues, tennis isn’t ready to lose him just yet.
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