Following his straight-sets defeat to world number one Jannik Sinner in the French Open semifinals, Serbian tennis legend Novak Djokovic admitted that it could be his final appearance at Roland Garros, leaving his future participation uncertain. The 24-time Grand Slam champion was outplayed by Sinner, who showcased exceptional shot-making and composure to advance to the final, setting up a high-stakes showdown with Spain’s Carlos Alcaraz.
Sinner defeated Djokovic 6-4, 7-5, 7-6(3) in a match that featured riveting rallies and clinical execution from the young Italian. After the loss, Djokovic packed his bags and waved to the crowd, hinting at the possibility of a farewell. “This could have been the last match I ever played here,” Djokovic revealed during the post-match press conference, as quoted by the ATP. “I don’t know if I’ll return in 12 months, so it felt more emotional at the end.”
While Djokovic expressed a desire to continue playing, he acknowledged the physical demands of staying at the top. “Do I want to play more? Absolutely. But whether I’ll be able to play here again in a year—I really don’t know,” he added.
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A Battle of Generations
Despite not being in peak form entering the tournament, Djokovic gave a resilient performance and pushed Sinner throughout the encounter. “I gave him a run for his money,” Djokovic said. “I tried to make him earn every point and did all I could. In the end, you shake hands with the better player and move on.”
The 36-year-old was gracious in defeat and praised Sinner’s performance and athleticism. “He’s playing the best tennis of his life. He loves a high-paced match, he’s physically strong, and his timing is impeccable. He rarely loses balance. He was simply too good tonight.”
Alcaraz Awaits in the Final
The final will feature two of tennis’ brightest young stars Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz in what will be the first-ever Grand Slam final between players born in the 2000s. Alcaraz advanced after Lorenzo Musetti retired in their semifinal match. The Spaniard was leading 4-6, 7-6(3), 6-0, 2-0 before Musetti was forced to withdraw after two hours and 25 minutes.
Djokovic believes that the upcoming Alcaraz-Sinner final is a much-needed rivalry for the sport. “The way both are playing and approaching the game, I think they’ll have very long and successful careers,” he said. “We’ll see them lifting major trophies often.”
As the tennis world watches a new generation take center stage, Djokovic’s words reflect a changing of the guard and possibly, a poignant farewell to one of the sport’s greatest champions at Roland Garros.
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