Novak Djokovic could break his usually strict traditions during the off-season by playing a lucrative exhibition event in Mexico, and he may also visit other countries.
The Serbian is preparing for a Davis Cup tie against Greece in Belgrade this week. Stefanos Tsitsipas's withdrawal from the tie has helped his chances of leading his country to success.
Djokovic is scheduled to play just two more tournaments before the end of the year: the Shanghai Masters and the Paris Masters. If he does not manage good results in those tournaments, the 37-year-old could fail to qualify for the ATP Finals for the first time since 2017.
Playing much fewer tournaments than in the past is something Djokovic has done for a few years. He is open about the Grand Slams being his primary focus each year (this year's Olympics were an exception), although he failed to win any of the four Grand Slams this season.
Seven-time Grand Slam champion John McEnroe thinks Djokovic lost his fear factor after not winning a Grand Slam this year. That could make him even more determined to succeed at the biggest tournaments next season.
Djokovic's meticulous planning usually means he does not play in any exhibition events during the off-season. In previous years, he has used that time to rest and recuperate without any distractions.
However, the tennis legend's plans might differ this year if the reports about his desire to play in an exhibition event in Mexico are accurate. Djokovic has not officially announced anything yet, but it seems like the exhibition has a good chance of happening.
Other ATP stars, such as Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, and Carlos Alcaraz, have played in exhibitions in Mexico. They undoubtedly did this for a very lucrative fee, which could influence Djokovic's decision to break from his usual off-season routine.
The Monumental Plaza de Toros Mexico is rumored to be the venue for the exhibition event. However, Djokovic might expand further and also tour Latin America.
According to Esto.com, a tour of Latin America could include a match against Juan Martin Del Potro in Argentina. It is unclear which other countries might be chosen, but Brazil would seem like another logical choice.
Reports also say part of the reason for these plans is that Djokovic has not felt the same pressure since winning his first Olympic gold medal earlier this season. That achievement means the 24-time Grand Slam champion has won every significant title in the sport.
If true, observing Djokovic for the rest of the year and then in 2025 will be fascinating. Feeling less pressure may loosen the former World No. 1 up and make him play great tennis, but it could also lead to him having less of the intensity that has made him so feared in the past.
The off-season gives Djokovic some chance to rest at home. However, these reports indicate that Djokovic also wants to expand his horizons while being paid handsomely for doing so. Fans in Mexico will hope to hear an official announcement about the exhibition event soon.
0 Comments