Is this the end of Novak Djokovic’s 2024 season? The Serbian legend has officially withdrawn from the Rolex Paris Masters, raising speculation about whether he will compete again this year. Known for his strategic planning, Djokovic’s decision has sparked intrigue across the tennis community. However, rather than signaling decline, it could reflect a calculated move to preserve his longevity. Andy Roddick offered his interpretation of Djokovic’s mindset, suggesting that rankings no longer drive the Serb.

Djokovic made it clear that qualifying for this season’s ATP Finals in Turin was not a priority. Looking into that, Roddick in an episode of Served Up with Andy Roddick stated, “Novak has said he’s not playing Turin; he said he has no interest in playing Turin. Now, he can always change his mind, but simply, I’m not great at math, but if someone ahead of you is not playing, then that means you’re in ninth; that means he’s in one spot.”

Following that, he added, “But you know Novak is going to play pick and choose his spots now he’s going to try to, you know, juggle the schedule; he gets enough matches before Majors, but really my interpretation of the way. Novak is talking is that he doesn’t care about rankings anymore. He knows what he’s been, can’t take away the number one ranking forever has had it for more weeks than anyone, this is how he the next phase of his career is going to go where he picks and chooses his spots.”

Novak Djokovic has given his competitors a chance to overtake him in the ATP Race rankings by missing the Rolex Paris Masters. After competing for Serbia in the Davis Cup last month, he made it apparent that making it to the ATP Finals in Turin is no longer his first objective.

Djokovic said, “As far as I am concerned, I am done with those tournaments for my career. Whether I will play in other tournaments this year or in the future, I can’t say right now. My main priorities are playing for the national team and Slams, everything else is less important.”

Casper Ruud, Andrey Rublev, and Alex de Minaur are closing in on Djokovic’s spot in the ATP Race standings with upcoming tournaments. If they fall short and Djokovic qualifies for the ATP Finals, he’ll face another decision on whether to compete in Turin.

While Djokovic may be carefully picking his battles, he wasted no time putting an end to any retirement rumors with a clear statement about his future. His decisive message leaves no room for doubt—despite scaling back his schedule, the Serb remains committed to competing at the highest level.

Novak Djokovic is in no mood to retire

With Rafael Nadal‘s retirement coming, Djokovic’s recent success has only increased conjecture that he, too, is nearing the conclusion of his career. Fans have been left wondering if the 24-time Grand Slam champion is preparing to hang up his racquet. However, the Serbian legend has put a stop to the rumors with a shocking announcement—retirement isn’t on his radar just yet—in typical Djokovic form.

He said, “Deep inside I feel that I still have more Grand Slams to win. What still pushes me to compete, especially in the Grand Slams, is the feeling that I can be a candidate to win it. And also for my country. I love playing the Davis Cup for Serbia.”

Djokovic’s unwavering commitment to representing Serbia has earned him deep respect and affection from his compatriots, who celebrate his successes as national triumphs. His recent decisions, such as his decision to withdraw from the Paris Masters, are surely influenced by this deep bond. Djokovic is prioritizing the path ahead by concentrating on his long-term goals and his well-being, as Andy Roddick wisely notes. By doing this, he makes sure he continues to be a source of motivation for his nation and opens the door for more success in the future.