Olympic Tennis Rumor: Novak Djokovic’s Retirement Speculation Grows as He Nears Elusive Gold Medal

Roger Federer once said that  Novak Djokovic’s play might not be as tricky as that of Rafael Nadal, but he needed to be mentally tough to face the Serbian Ace. As Djokovic was, “everywhere, he was long, he was tall, he was quick, he had it all.” While Wimbledon 2024 made everyone second-guess Djokovic’s time on the court. But the final match must have made everyone pause that thought and maybe think that Djokovic has some more time before the youngsters take over. However, the game has also become the highlight of his career as it is the only honor missing from his list. And if he wins, the question props up, what’s next? Patrick McEnroe has come up with one probable answer.

While the two greats locked horns in a thriller contest on the clay courts of Paris. Djokovic has the upper hand as he has already claimed the first set. However, Alcaraz has not stayed on his heels, not letting the Serbian Ace breathe any air in peace. But just in case, Djokovic wins the Gold in Paris, what would be the next stop for him? According to McEnroe, it might be retirement, as he has nothing left to prove. He tweeted his speculation:

However, McEnroe was not alone in wondering what was left for the Serbian Ace in the circuit. He has 24 Grand Slam and is now an Olympic gold too. Moreover, he played like this was his last tennis match, and there would not be another chance at the Olympics. Bastien Fachan concurred with this thought as he tweeted,

“Djokovic is playing this match like he knows there won’t be a bigger occasion ever again in his life as a professional tennis player.” Is this his last match? Maybe not. But the rumor mill has certainly begun with these thoughts going around.

Moreover, after winning the historic gold he was so desperate about, Djokovic could play more freely. Now he has nothing missing from his trophy cabinet. And if his form continues, the Serbian Ace can even win his 25th Grand Slam trophy at the US Open. As nothing is left to prove, Djokovic is more free than ever in the circuit. Moreover, the GOAT debate has been reignited after the terrific win.

Does Olympic gold put Djokovic at the top in the history of tennis?

It wasn’t a day or a year or maybe a few years’ effort that had Djokovic shaking on the Clay court after winning the historical gold. It was a childhood dream, fueled by decades of hard work, and somewhat of luck. This is not all. The Serbian Ace has been on the receiving end of tennis fans since his entry into the circuit. And he was the only ‘Big 3’ without an Olympic gold. But now, after winning against the charged Spaniard, Djokovic can finally breathe a sigh of relief and shed some tears. The gold that escaped his hold for the last 16 years is now in his grasp.

However, with this achievement, Djokovic stands at the top of the male tennis world. He has more Grand Slam than his ‘Big 3’ counterparts, and an Olympic gold to match them. His 24 titles also equal the record for most single titles won in the open era. What more is left for him to prove? Absolutely nothing. And that must be the reason why the GOAT debate has been ignited again. This time for Djokovic.

Has the Serbian legend finally achieved the status of the GOAT? Or does he need that 25th Grand Slam to cement his position at the top? Nobody knows but for now, he can relax as he has braved injuries, harsh fans, and certainly his nerves in the match to win the title.