Novak Djokovic: Spanish tennis great reveals reason the Serb could retire after 2024 season
Novak Djokovic during a press conference in Indian Wells
Former world No 2 Alex Corretja has suggested Novak Djokovic may retire if he does not win at least one Grand Slam title this year.
The two-time French Open finalist believes Djokovic is “still hungry”, but argued this year is “crucial” as he feels the Serbian “only likes to play if he can win Majors.”
Djokovic will begin his title defence at the 2024 French Open against wildcard and world No 142 Pierre-Hugues Herbert on Tuesday. He is looking to win his fourth French Open title to add to his triumphs on the Parisian clay in 2016, 2021 and 2023.
The 37-year-old won the Australian Open, French Open and US Open titles in 2023, while he also lost a thrilling five-set final to Carlos Alcaraz at Wimbledon.
The Serbian claimed a record 23rd men’s Grand Slam title at Roland Garros last year to surpass his great rival Rafael Nadal, before he secured his 24th Major at the US Open.
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Djokovic was beaten in four sets by eventual champion Jannik Sinner in the semi-finals of the 2024 Australian Open in January.
The world No 1 has not won a tournament since collecting his seventh title of a brilliant 2023 campaign at the ATP Finals in Turin in November.
Speaking to Eurosport, Corretja discussed Djokovic’s motivation ahead of his opening round match at Roland Garros and highlighted the importance of Grand Slam success.
“It’s a little bit challenging for him also because he overcame the record for Grand Slams,” said the Spaniard.
“Deep inside of his heart he might be fighting for that as well – is it worth it to continue doing this, all the effort, all the commitment?
“I believe yes, but this year is going to be crucial for the rest of his career. I think he needs to win one more Major this year at least in order to feel he’s still hungry for that.
“If he doesn’t make it, I’m not so sure he’s going to be too happy to continue because he only likes to play if he can win Majors.
“I’m giving him the chance of this year to see what’s going on. But when you’re a winner, a legend like him, I’m always counting on him. I have no doubts Novak is still hungry.”
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