Djokovic, blunt about retirement: “I still feel it’s not enough”

Despite not currently finding the best sensations on the clay courts, Novak Djokovic maintains his role as a contender in every tournament he enters, regardless of his early-round performances. Just recently, the Serbian reached the final in Miami, but back-to-back losses in Monte Carlo and Madrid, and his withdrawal from Rome, do not encourage his fans too much, although they still have faith in him for Roland Garros.

During this chaotic period, the former world number one and winner of 24 Grand Slams granted an interview to the American publication Business Traveler, where he reflects on the role tennis has played and continues to play in his life, as well as delving into topics such as entrepreneurship.

Tennis has consumed most of my life from a very young age. I have dedicated all my mental, physical, and emotional energy to it, and it has rewarded me in many ways. When you reach the highest levels of the professional sports world, there are certain principles instilled in you that are essential fundamentals of business or anything you do in life. The importance of discipline and daily routine is underestimated. Discipline, commitment, and dedication, but also innovation. Adaptability is unique and very rare,” Novak confessed about the most multidisciplinary lessons he has learned in tennis.

Novak Djokovic’s Greatest Passions

“I love a phrase I heard some years ago: ‘The greatest opponent is always the person you were yesterday. Strive to be the best version of yourself.’ It’s a sort of life motto for me. Keeping an open mind and curiosity, surrounding yourself with the right people, and not taking anything for granted.” Novak reveals that he has turned down several significant offers throughout his career: “Personally, over the past two decades, I have refused to engage in many different businesses and represent various products, mainly because I cannot endorse something in which I do not believe, which is not in line with me and my values. Well-being and health are my greatest passions, along with tennis, sports, and education.”

His Reflection on Retirement

“Clearly, nowadays it is challenging for me to achieve the results I used to when I was at my peak. That doesn’t mean I can never do it again, but that greatness changes form, and that’s because you are a different person every year, every month, every week. Tennis is a sport where you need to cultivate the mindset that it’s never enough. Once it’s enough, then you have to set the racket aside. And I still… I still don’t feel it’s enough for me.”