Novak Djokovic withdrew from his third-place playoff match against Taylor Fritz at the Six Kings Slam in Riyadh after losing the first set 7-6. The Serbian star, who had entered the exhibition event with high expectations, appeared physically uncomfortable during the tiebreak and opted not to continue into the second set. The retirement has sparked widespread speculation about his condition and upcoming schedule.
Concerns over 2025 calendar
Djokovic’s decision to retire has raised questions about his participation in the final stretch of the 2025 season. With major events like the Paris Masters, ATP Finals in Turin, and the inaugural Athens Invitational on the horizon, fans and analysts are wondering whether the 24-time Grand Slam champion will compete again this year.
There has been no official statement from Djokovic’s camp regarding the nature of his discomfort or any injury diagnosis. However, his withdrawal in a high-profile exhibition match suggests that caution may be guiding his decisions.
Silence from Djokovic’s team
As of now, Djokovic’s team has not confirmed his plans for the remainder of the season. The Serbian press has speculated that he may skip Paris to focus on recovery, while others believe he could still aim for Turin if his condition improves.
The Six Kings Slam was seen as a warm-up and promotional event, but Djokovic’s early exit has shifted the narrative toward his long-term fitness and motivation.
Fritz advances, but focus remains on Djokovic
Taylor Fritz, who won the first set in a tight tiebreak, was declared the winner by retirement. While the American expressed satisfaction with his performance, the spotlight remained on Djokovic’s abrupt exit.
The tennis world now waits for clarity on whether Djokovic will return to action in 2025 or take an extended break. His absence from any of the remaining tournaments would significantly impact the ATP race and fan expectations heading into the next season.
ATP Basel - Taylor Fritz's projected path
Taylor Fritz in 2025
Currently ranked no.4 (career-high), Fritz played his last match on the 5th
of October when he was overcome by world no.37 Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard 6-4 7-5 in the 3rd round in Shanghai (draw).During this season the American has managed to achieve a compiled 50-19 match record. The American has won 3 titles in 2025 in Australia, Stuttgart and Eastbourne. Fritz reached the final in Tokyo.
He is also scheduled to play in Basel (Swiss Indoors Basel) on the 20th of October and Paris (Rolex Paris Masters) on the 27th of October.
Novak Djokovic in 2025
Ranked no.5, Novak played his last match on the 11th of October when he lost to world no.40 Valentin Vacherot 6-3 6-4 in the semifinal in Shanghai (draw).
This season Djokovic has managed to achieve a composed 35-11 win-loss record. The Serbian conquered 1 title in Geneva. Djokovic got to the final in Miami.
He is also scheduled to play in Athens (Hellenic Championship) on the 2nd of November.
Taylor Fritz and Novak Djokovic clashed against each other 11 times. Their head to head is 11-0 for Djokovic.