For the second year in a row, Novak Djokovic has decided to skip the Nitto ATP Finals. The former world No.1 who won two titles this year (in Geneva and Athens) seemed intent on traveling to Turin this edition and FITP president Angelo Binaghi had anticipated his presence, but the Serbian legend changed his mind during the Athens ATP 250 (particularly after the tough battle against Lorenzo Musetti in the final).
At this stage of his career, the 38-year-old from Belgrade is only focused on Grand Slam tournaments and has no intention of stressing his body further, which is why he avoided playing another tournament and allowed Musetti to enter the Finals as the ninth qualified player.
Nole is already focusing on next season, where he will try to make tennis history again by winning his 25th career Major title. A few days ago, he declared that his huge dream would be to end his long journey in professional tennis by representing his Serbia at the Los Angeles Olympics scheduled for 2028 (when he will be 41 years old).
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Petchey defends Djokovic
Meanwhile, top coach and analyst Mark Petchey who did an excellent work with Emma Raducanu before the latter hired Francisco Roig has broken silence on Novak's controversial choice not to go to Turin: "Djokovic has the right to do what he wants, having given his best for this sport. If he feels that he needs rest right now, then you have to respect his decision. We know that his next huge goal is the 2026 Australian Open, which will start a week later than usual. He has never hidden that Grand Slam tournaments are his only goal from now until the end of his career."
This year, the Serbian player became the oldest ever to reach at least the semifinals in the four Majors. His dream is to do even better in 2026, provided his body supports him. Nole confessed that he has many more physical problems than in the past, especially at the end of the big tournaments.
