LONDON — Tennis legend Novak Djokovic has dropped a major hint about his potential retirement date in a revealing interview with former footballer and manager Slaven Bilić. The 24-time Grand Slam champion opened up about his future ambitions, admitting that the "only thing" on his mind is adding more major titles to his already historic career.
Djokovic, who turned 37 in May 2024, acknowledged that his career is entering its twilight years but emphasized his unwavering focus on surpassing his own records. "I'm not thinking about retirement yet, but I know it's coming," he told Bilić during their conversation. "Right now, my only goal is to keep winning."
Djokovic's Retirement Timeline Hint
The Serbian superstar suggested that the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles could serve as a potential endpoint for his illustrious career. "Four more years feels achievable," Djokovic stated. "LA would be a dream scenario—to finish where I won my first Olympic medal." Djokovic claimed bronze at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, but gold has eluded him in four subsequent attempts.
However, Djokovic made it clear that his plans remain fluid: "I'll listen to my body. If I'm still competitive at 40, why stop? But if injuries pile up, I won't push beyond reason." The tennis icon has battled elbow and abdominal injuries in recent seasons, though he maintains an unparalleled fitness regimen.
The "Only Thing" on His Mind
When pressed about his current motivations, Djokovic was unequivocal: "The only thing occupying my thoughts is adding more Slams. Nothing else compares." This single-minded focus has propelled Djokovic to:
- A record 24 Grand Slam titles (3 more than Nadal, 4 beyond Federer)
- 400+ weeks as world No. 1 (nearly double Federer's 310)
- The only player to win all four majors three times
Bilić noted Djokovic's intensity when discussing future tournaments: "His eyes still burn when talking about Wimbledon or Roland Garros. This isn't a man ready to walk away." Djokovic confirmed he's already planning his 2025 schedule around the Australian Open, where he's won a record 10 titles.
The Next Generation Challenge
Djokovic admitted that rising stars like Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner have renewed his competitive fire: "They push me to evolve. Every match against them feels like a final." The veteran holds a 3-2 edge over Alcaraz in Grand Slam meetings but lost their most recent Wimbledon final clash.
Statistics reveal Djokovic's remarkable longevity:
- Oldest man to win a Slam (36 years, 7 months at 2023 US Open)
- Only player with 60+ wins against top-10 opponents after age 30
- Maintained a 90%+ win rate in 2023 despite being the oldest in the top 50
Legacy Beyond Tennis
While tennis remains his priority, Djokovic hinted at future ventures: "I want to grow the sport globally, especially in the Balkans. My academy in Belgrade is just the start." He also expressed interest in sports diplomacy, having previously mediated between ATP and PTPA player groups.
Bilić observed that Djokovic's perspective has matured: "Ten years ago, he spoke about records. Now he discusses inspiring kids and leaving tennis better than he found it." This shift was evident when Djokovic teared up after his 2023 French Open victory, dedicating the win to his childhood coach.
Conclusion: The Final Chapter
As Djokovic prepares for Wimbledon 2024, his comments suggest a carefully planned exit strategy rather than abrupt retirement. "I want to leave on my terms, with my family courtside," he shared. With his son Stefan now training seriously, a father-son practice session at a future Grand Slam isn't out of the question.
For now, the tennis world can expect Djokovic's relentless pursuit of history to continue. As he told Bilić in closing: "When the day comes that I can't win Slams, you'll know before I do. Until then, I'm coming for every trophy."