Djokovic has qualified for the ATP Finals for a record 18th time.
In another twist in the tale, Novak Djokovic has denied the recent confirmation made by the FITP President Angelo Binaghi that the Serbian icon will play the Nitto ATP Finals 2025. Earlier, Binaghi had come out and said that Djokovic had confirmed his presence at the season-ending championships. However, the 24-time Grand Slam winner, who is currently competing in the ATP-250 Hellenic Championship in Athens, will decide only after the tournament.
“I don’t know where he [FITP President Angelo Binaghi] got that information from. Definitely not from me or my team,” Djokovic explained in a statement. It has been a 2025 campaign filled with ups and downs for the 38-year-old, wherein fitness concerns have forced him to become picky with the events he chooses to play. “I will decide [about ATP Finals] at the end of this tournament,” he continued.
Djokovic’s season includes four semifinals at the four majors – losing to one of the world’s Top-3 players at all of them. He also reached the Miami Open final in March, before capturing an impeccable 100th career trophy in Geneva. The Djoker is on a run of five straight semifinal appearances – including the exhibition event – Six Kings Slam.
Ahead of his opening encounter at the ATP-250 in Athens, Djokovic spoke to Vicky Georgatou of Greek media house SDNA. The World No. 5 delved deeper into several aspects such as his retirement plans, why he continues to play, and much more. “Many thought that after the Olympic Games, after winning gold, I would end my career,” he revealed. “But I don’t play tennis just for achievements.
“Of course, they’re a big part of my motivation. But I also play because I enjoy competing. I enjoy the process and everything that tennis brings to me: personally, to my family, but also what I bring to tennis. I like to be able to contribute to the development, popularity and progress of our sport.
“So there’s more reasons why I’m still playing – not just the results. When you get everything, when you win Olympic gold, of course it’s weird to go back to tournaments and start from scratch. But at the same time, it is a source of inspiration. I feel that I still have the motivation and desire to take on new challenges.”
(Image Credits: Geoff Burke, Imagn Images)
