Renowned Italian newspaper „Gazeta delo Sport“ published an article in which they called the world’s best tennis player Novak Djokovic „completely empty and full of doubts“, and also mentioned that the Serbian „no longer knows how to win“. They also wonder when he will return to the court, with a message that he is no longer the same player that everyone fears.
Djokovic is not used to not having won any trophies in March in the season, and his fans and he himself hoped that he would win his 25th Grand Slam at the Australian Open. However, Djokovic was first stopped in the semi-finals by Jannik Sinner (who also won the prestigious tournament), then did not participate in any of the smaller tournaments, disappointed at Indian Wells where he was eliminated in the 3rd round by an outsider, and then withdrew from Miami.
He dedicated the past days to relaxation, being a frequent guest at football and basketball matches, gatherings attended by elite personalities, and even found time to swim in Florida. Many, including Italian media, wonder if he lacks motivation to play with the same dedication at the age of 37.
„Probably now those closest to him are concerned about his unusual lack of ‘cannibal’ appetite that seems empty and seeks motivation. Perhaps it’s due to the absence of arch-rivals Nadal and Federer, perhaps because of the wave of young tennis players that make him feel out of place at the age of 37… The facts speak for themselves: Djokovic is no longer winning,“ „Gazeta delo Sport“ states.
Italians also addressed Djokovic’s surroundings.
„It is not an ideal situation considering that Djokovic is defending a large number of points on clay, including 2,000 at the French Open which he won last year. It is still not clear what his plan is: currently training in Monte Carlo which suggests he will play in this Masters event, but sources from his circle say that his motivation is at a historic low. Physically, he is still not at his best level, the results of his recent matches have not allowed him to find his rhythm, and mentally he does not seem too good. The expressions on his face in the first months of the year clearly speak for themselves,“ the prestigious media wrote.
The allusion is made to the fact that Djokovic’s decision about retirement is approaching, although the Serbian ace has repeatedly said that he is still motivated and will play tennis as long as he can compete at a high level. The media also report that he will play in Monte Carlo starting on April 7.
„I still love this sport, it’s becoming harder and harder, and I’m still competing at the highest level. I’m still number one, so right now I feel like I want to keep going, to keep trying to make more history. It’s still a long way to think about the Olympics in Los Angeles, but the thought of it, of course, excites me. I would love to play it, but I can’t dedicate myself to it yet,“ Djokovic said earlier this month.
