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Djokovic disclosed that the tribute Roland Garros paid to Rafael Nadal made him think of his own retirement from the sport, but held back from setting any timeline on the same.
Rafa Nadal, second right, poses with, from left, Novak Djokovic, Roger Federer and Andy Murray, right, during a farewell ceremony at center court Philippe-Chatrier, at the Roland-Garros stadium, in Paris, Sunday May 25, 2025. (AP Photo/Thibault Camus)
Novak Djokovic revealed that the moving tribute to the legendary Rafael Nadal at the Roland Garros during the French Open made him think of his own retirement from the sport, but did not set any timeframe pertaining to the remaining length of his illustrious career.
“Well, I mean, honestly, I was thinking about my end of the road, as well,” Djokovic said on Monday ahead of his French Open 2025 opener against Mackie McDonald of the USA.
“But, I didn’t think about the exact date, if that’s what you’re looking for,” the Serbian added with a cheeky grin.
Nadal was feted at the iconic Court Philippe Chatrier, where a plaque displaying the 14-time winner’s shoeprint was unveiled. Nadal was joined by Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic, and Andy Murray as the traditional top-4 of modern tennis united to mark a moment of celebration of the legendary Spaniard.
Djokovic also disclosed that he did discuss the topic of retirement with Federer and Murray and reminisced over the memories the quartet created during a shining period in the sport of tennis.
“I was obviously talking to Federer and Murray about their goodbyes and reminiscing and reflecting on the rivalries. And of course, part of me is proud that I’m still there, that I’m still going,” said Djokovic.
“But at the same time, I was, and I still am, a bit sad that they’re all gone, because those guys were my greatest motivations of why I competed so intensely and for so long,” he continued.
Djokovic reflected on the rivalry he shared with Nadal, as the duo brought the best out of each other time and again, resulting in some spectacular tennis action over the years, which will be cherished forever.
“Rafa deserved what he got yesterday in full intensity of its glory,” the Serbian said lauding the Spaniard.
“Each one of us dreams of being remembered in such a way and celebrated, of course,” Djokovic said.
“I do wish one day that I can get that kind of goodbye from the world of tennis, for sure,” the 24-time Grand Slam champions said.
Djokovic, who was evidently moved during the celebration of one of his fiercest competitors and remarked the bond the stars share despite having walked out on opposite sides of the court for decades.
“It was a really heartwarming moment,” Djokovic said.
“Even though we were the fiercest rivals, it’s that personal touch that is out there when you kind of spill your heart out on the court, as he did yesterday. It’s almost impossible it doesn’t touch you deeply,” the 38-year-old concluded.
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