Novak Djokovic ended this season without participating in the Nitto ATP Finals in Turin, making the same decision as last year with the aim of preserving his body. The Serbian legend had to use a lot of energy to lift the trophy at the Athens ATP 250 last week, especially during the final against Italian star Lorenzo Musetti, which turned into a thrilling battle that is on the list of the best matches of this year.
The former world number 1 was intent on playing the Finals in 2025 and had also booked the hotel for himself and his team members, but he confided that he suffered a shoulder issue during the Athens tournament and preferred not to risk worsening the situation.
The 24-time Grand Slam champion has lifted two trophies this season, in Geneva and Athens respectively, as well as reaching the semifinals in the four Major tournaments (becoming the oldest player ever to achieve this feat).
Connors has fired a warning to Djokovic
At the same time, the 38-year-old from Belgrade has had moreinjuries and admitted that his body no longer gives him the same guarantees as in the past. Nole loves competing too much and has no intention of retiring in the near future, indeed he has expressed his desire to represent his Serbia also at the Los Angeles Olympics scheduled for 2028.
During the latest episode of his famous podcast, American legend Jimmy Connors revealed what the Serbian veteran's priorities could be in 2026: My idea was to get ready to play Wimbledon or the US Open, mostly the US Open. That was my goal when I got older. When I was 36 or 37. I was out for the year when I was 38. But that was my goal to be able to play the kind of tennis I wanted to and make a statement at the US Open.
So if you are not careful, especially when you get older, and Djoker is 38. You can wear yourself out, easily, if you push yourself and try to do too much.
