Novak Djokovic has weighed in on recent comments made by Carlos Alcaraz and Iga Swiatek regarding the demanding nature of the professional tennis calendar. Both younger stars have expressed concerns about the physical and mental toll of the packed schedule, but Djokovic believes the issue runs deeper than public complaints.
A call for player responsibility
Djokovic emphasized that players themselves must take greater responsibility if they want to see meaningful change. He pointed out the contradiction between complaining about the calendar and simultaneously participating in exhibition matches, which are often outside the official tour.
“But then there are exhibitions as well that players are signing up for, so it’s a little bit contradictory,” Djokovic said. He continued by criticizing the lack of consistent involvement from players in efforts to reform the system.
“In the end, I can say that the players are not united enough. Players are not participating enough when they should be. So they make the comments and they complain, and then they go away.”
Top players urged to take action
Djokovic stressed that change requires active engagement, especially from the sport’s leading figures. He argued that understanding the structure and politics of tennis governance is essential for any progress to be made.
“You have to invest the time, you have to invest energy yourself, not your agent, not your team, not your parents, not anybody, yourself,”
he said, urging players to educate themselves on how the system works and what can be improved.Media statements aren’t enough
While acknowledging that public statements can generate attention, Djokovic was skeptical about their long-term impact. He believes that without sustained effort and collaboration, complaints will not lead to reform.
“Going out in the media and talking about this and that, okay, it might stir up some energy or some attention. But in the end of the day it’s not going to change, nothing is going to change, you know?”
Djokovic’s remarks serve as a challenge to his peers, especially the younger generation, to take a more proactive role in shaping the future of professional tennis.
ATP Shanghai - Novak Djokovic's projected path
Novak Djokovic in 2025
Now the world no.5, the Serbian played his last match on the 2nd of October when he was defeated by Unknown Player bye in the 1st round in Shanghai (draw).
Currently, during this year Djokovic has achieved a 31-10 win-loss record. Novak clinched 1 title in Geneva. Novak reached the final in Miami.