“Don’t Think He Should Play,” Novak Djokovic’s Performance Lull Receives Brutal Honesty From Serena Williams’ Former Coach
Novak Djokovic has officially withdrawn from the Italian Open, ending a remarkable 17-year streak at the event. The six-time champion confirmed the decision with a heartfelt message: “Rome, I will miss you. I hope we meet next year.” But beyond his absence, it’s his recent dip in form that’s raising red flags—and sparking brutally honest opinions from the tennis world.
Since his last win on March 28 in the Miami Open semifinals, the 24-time Grand Slam champion has gone 12-7 in 2025. Worse yet, he’s failed to win a single match on clay this season. After early exits in both Monte Carlo (to Alejandro Tabilo) and Madrid (to Matteo Arnaldi), both with identical 6-3, 6-4 losses, questions are mounting about his physical and mental readiness.
Djokovic himself has acknowledged this as a “kind of new reality.” That reality has landed him on Rennae Stubbs’ “Worry Index,” and drawn a blunt response from Patrick Mouratoglou, Serena Williams’ former coach.
Mouratoglou Doesn’t Hold Back
In a recent Instagram video, Mouratoglou didn’t mince words:
“I was very surprised to see Novak play like that. He didn’t look like he was trying to win. If he lacks motivation, I don’t think he should play. He wasn’t physically ready, and it showed.”
While careful to note it wasn’t a judgment, Mouratoglou expressed confusion over Djokovic’s decision to compete at all if his heart wasn’t fully in it.
“Motivation is key for him. After a stellar 2023, his 2024 was underwhelming, except for the Olympics. He needs a clear target to stay focused. Hoping everything clicks at a Slam without proper build-up is risky.”
Djokovic Focused on Grand Slams Amid Speculation
Despite his form, Djokovic remains focused on Roland Garros and Wimbledon. Teaming up with Andy Murray as part of his coaching staff has raised eyebrows, especially with timing so close to the Slams.
After his Madrid exit, Djokovic’s cryptic comments suggested it “might be his last time playing there,” fueling retirement rumors. But in typical Djokovic fashion, he pushed back strongly.
“I still have it in my legs, my hands, my arms,” he told Business Traveler USA. “It’s never enough—when it is, that’s when I’ll stop. And I don’t feel it’s enough yet.”
Still, the Serbian legend has admitted that staying mentally engaged is harder than before, citing lack of inspiration to travel and compete consistently.
Fan Debate: Is the End Near or Just a Temporary Dip?
A fan poll is currently asking:
Is Novak Djokovic’s recent slump a sign of looming retirement?
- Yes, he’s nearing the end.
- No, it’s just a rough patch.
- Maybe, but he’s got some fuel left.
- Doesn’t matter—as long as he competes.
The Road to Roland Garros
With just weeks until the French Open, the question remains: Can Djokovic rediscover his championship form? He’s a three-time winner in Paris and has a long history of proving doubters wrong.
But with form, fitness, and focus all under the spotlight, the pressure is mounting. As Mouratoglou said, “Nothing replaces matches—and the right mindset.”
What’s your call?
Is Djokovic just regrouping—or have we seen the beginning of the end for one of tennis’s all-time greats?
