Novak Djokovic's father set for huge disappointment as retirement statement made
Novak Djokovic has made it clear that he is not planning to retire anytime soon despite his father's wishes
At 38 years old, Novak Djokovic remains passionate about his tennis career. The 24-time Grand Slam winner has accomplished nearly everything imaginable in the sport, yet he shows no indication of stepping back.
The tennis world No. 5 reaffirmed his commitment to continue competing this week, boldly declaring that retirement "wasn't happening." Though the tennis community will be thrilled to have the Serbian icon around for the foreseeable future, his father Srdjan may feel differently about Djokovic's recent statement.
Two years back, Srdjan voiced his desire to see his son step away from professional tennis, but that scenario won't unfold anytime soon. Nearly every time Djokovic wraps up a tournament, retirement rumors begin swirling.
The world No. 5 isn't capturing as many championships as he once did, and his physical condition has been causing him increased difficulties as he ages.
Nevertheless, Djokovic keeps demonstrating his ability to compete with tennis's elite players. He advanced to the semi-finals of all four Majors this year, secured his 100th title in Geneva, and presently ranks third in the standings after competing in 12 tournaments in 2025.
The former world No. 1 has now made his position crystal clear regarding retirement plans. Djokovic appeared alongside Shaquille O'Neal, Dana White, and Max Kellerman for a panel discussion at the Joy Festival in Riyadh on Thursday.
When questioned about retirement, he responded simply: "It is not happening, I am sorry to disappoint them [the younger players]."
Elaborating, Djokovic added: "Longevity is one of my biggest motivations. I really want to see how far I can go. If you see across all the global sports, Lebron James, he is still going strong, he is 40.
"Cristiano Ronaldo, Tom Brady played until he was 40-something years old, it is unbelievable.
"They are inspiring me as well, so I want to keep going, that is one of the motivations I have and then I want to also live to see, live meaning keep on playing professionally, what is coming for our sport, and I am super excited about it."
Yet Djokovic's father, Srdjan, has consistently urged the 24-time Grand Slam champion to hang up his racket.
In the Novak Djokovic — Untold Stories documentary from 2023, he revealed: "As far as my wishes for him go, he has already fulfilled them all seven, eight years ago. The rest is this amazing bonus.
"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 it will happen next year. And for Novak to slowly but surely... it's not the end, but in a year and a half, let's say.
"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 - with him being fully dedicated for 30 years, and not taking his foot off the gas, there is not much time for other things in life."
It's been over 18 months since Djokovic's father expressed his wish, which has yet to materialize. However, the Serbian tennis star has become more discerning with his schedule in recent seasons, striking a balance between his personal and professional commitments, a trend that is likely to continue for the foreseeable future.