Tennis legend Novak Djokovic stated that he believes many people are not satisfied that he is still among the best players in the game and that they are searching for a new leader. He claimed that Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz should be included in the conversation about a possible changing of the guard, but that other players should not.
During the 2024 grass-court Grand Slam, Djokovic advanced to his tenth Wimbledon final; however, Alcaraz prevented him from winning a record-tying eighth Wimbledon title.
According to some observers and fans, Alcaraz is expected to replace Djokovic as the next dominant player in men’s tennis and lead the field in the future.
After losing to Alcaraz, Djokovic was asked about the debate over the passing of generations in tennis in an interview with Serbian media.
Djokovic talked about it and said: “It is logical and normal to talk about it, people are always looking for something new. Many are not even satisfied that I am there (at the top), probably, so they are looking for a new leader, but it is an integral part of my career and the ecosystem in which I work, function, and live. Everyone has the right to express their opinion. The bigger the stage, the further it will be heard. If we talk about the results of Alcaraz, he deserves to be part of the discussion about the change of generations because he deserves it – four Slams; he was No. 1.”
He further said: “Sinner also, especially this year, but not so many others—the results need to be proven. And the people who were not even close to the titles and the Center Court are talking about something that has gone with the wind. That’s what people often say when I lose, that has I’m flat and the like.”
Novak Djokovic in 2024
Currently ranked no.2, the Serbian played his last match on the 14th of July when he was overcome by world no.3 Carlos Alcaraz 6-2 6-2 7-6(4) in the final in Wimbledon (draw).
This year Djokovic achieved an overall 23-7 match record. Novak Djokovic’s latest run in Wimbledon was the best achievement of his season.
Novak Djokovic |
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