Novak Djokovic has admitted that Rafael Nadal’s retirement has had a profound impact on his motivation to compete, revealing that he struggled to find joy on the court in the months following his rival’s departure. The Serbian star, who has shared one of the most iconic rivalries in tennis history with Nadal, spoke candidly about the emotional toll of losing his greatest competitor.
Djokovic described the experience as something he had never felt before, explaining that Nadal’s absence left a void in his career. He acknowledged that their battles had fueled his drive for success, and without them, he found himself questioning his purpose in the sport. The realization that a part of his journey had ended made it difficult for him to maintain his competitive edge.
This is what he said: “When Rafa left tennis, I felt something I’d never experienced before. I thought, ‘What do I do now?’
For me, it’s been very difficult to stay motivated to compete after his retirement. Honestly, I didn’t think it would affect me this way, but I feel like a part of me has gone with him, and it’s been a huge challenge for me to regain the joy on the court and the strength to continue competing. When Rafa left tennis, I felt something I’d never experienced before. I thought, ‘What do I do now?’ On the court, I’ve felt discouraged, but luckily, I’ve found other things that inspire me to continue, and after six months, I can say that I feel much better.”
Despite the initial struggle, Djokovic shared that he has gradually rediscovered his passion for the game. He credited new sources of inspiration for helping him regain his focus, allowing him to move forward and embrace the next chapter of his career. After six months of adjustment, he now feels more confident and ready to continue competing at the highest level.
Novak Djokovic in 2025
Currently ranked no.6, Novak played his last match on the 24th of May when he beat world no.31 Hubert Hurkacz 5-7 7-6(2) 7-6(2) in the final in Geneva to win his 100th career title.
This year Novak has achieved a 16-7 win-loss record. Novak clinched 1 title in Geneva. Djokovic was the finalist in Miami.
He is also scheduled to play at the Wimbledon (Wimbledon) on the 30th of June.