Toni Nadal believes Novak Djokovic is nearing retirement: ‘We are witnessing his final season’

Photo by Martin KEEP / AFP via Getty ImagesDjokovic to focus on Wimbledon after early French Open exitNovak Djokovic is set to turn his attention to Wimbledon after a disappointing early exit at the French Open.

>The world number one was knocked out in the third round by rising star Joao Fonseca, who took Djokovic down in a five-set battle that showed just how tough the draw can be.

>This was Djokovic’s earliest Grand Slam exit since the 2024 US Open, and his first early departure from Roland Garros since 2009. The result has raised questions about his form as he approaches the later stages of an already legendary career.

>So far this year, Djokovic has only played four tournaments: the Australian Open, Indian Wells, Rome, and now Roland Garros.

>His limited schedule is something we’ve come to expect as he manages his workload at this stage of his career. The next major stop on Djokovic’s calendar will be Wimbledon, where he has traditionally performed well over the years.

Photo by Clive Brunskill/Getty ImagesToni Nadal Weighs in on Novak Djokovic’s FutureSpeaking to ESPN, Rafael Nadal’s former coach said: “I was asked before Roland Garros whether I saw Djokovic winning the tournament, and I answered no; not because I don’t consider him good enough, but because the years go by.”

>“Thus, when you have to play every two days and in five-set matches, recovery is no longer the same. Movement doesn’t happen the same way anymore; you arrive a bit late, and all of this is reflected in the game.”

>“He is competing in an attempt to win another Grand Slam; otherwise, what interest does it have for a player who has already won everything?”

>Nadal finished: “That is why I think we are witnessing his final season.”

Novak Djokovic is staying the course with his pre-Wimbledon routineDjokovic will be playing at Wimbledon for the 21st time this year, and he’s already won the tournament seven times.

>He’s followed a similar approach to his schedule during this part of the season ever since 2019.

>Since playing Queen’s in 2018, Djokovic hasn’t played any warm-up events on grass between Roland Garros and Wimbledon, and that decision has clearly paid off.

>This year, he’s sticking to that plan, heading straight from Paris to London as he chases his 25th Grand Slam title.

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