Novak Djokovic isn't playing as many events as he did in the past, and this includes the home event in Belgrade, where he confirmed he won’t play this year either.
Djokovic has never been the type of player to compete in every event on the calendar. He was one of the earliest superstars to embrace a reduced schedule, emphasizing how important that is for longevity.
Given his performance since turning 30, it seems he was right, and more players are following his example. Even so, he has always made an effort to play certain events, especially those held at home, since Serbia hasn’t always had its own tournament.
There will be one this year in Belgrade, but unlike in previous years, Djokovic won’t be making an appearance at the ATP 250 tournament in November when the event takes place.
He is, however, playing this week during the Davis Cup, so in a sense, he is still taking the opportunity to compete at home.
"Weeks like these represent another motivation, they inspire me to keep going, they awake those butterflies in my belly. I thought that I would never have to seek motivation anywhere, it all used to come naturally – automatically – but that has not been the case in the last few years."
"In order to prolong my career, I need to enjoy, I need to choose wisely tournaments I am going to play."
Although he's happy to be back home and playing tennis, the Serbian won’t be participating in the Belgrade Open, running from November 3rd to 9th. He didn’t detail why he won’t play at the event, but it’s likely just a scheduling decision.
He’ll head to Sofia for an exhibition with Grigor Dimitrov after the Davis Cup and then to Shanghai. On top of that, the 37-year-old also confirmed that he won’t be chasing the ATP Finals either.
He’s currently ninth in the ATP Race, so there is a chance he won't even make it to the Top 8 unless he finishes strongly this year. Still, it’s not anticipated that he will push himself too much, given his reserved schedule and approach.
"I am not playing, that won’t change. After that, I am going to see what am I going to do. Usually in my career I used to have my schedule ready six months in advance, but nowadays that’s not the case, now it’s more spontaneous."
"Firstly, I need to physically, emotionally and mentally rest in order to even start thinking what I want to do next, in what way, how much and where."
Djokovic has concluded that outside of representing the national team and playing the Grand Slams, there isn't much for him to play for. He's won all of the tournaments, and majors are now the only events he cares about.
The Grand Slams will further improve his legacy, and playing for the national team is purely patriotic for the Serbian.
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