Novak Djokovic Names Two Most Important Things Needed For Him To Keep Competing
News
Novak Djokovic spoke about the essential elements required for him to continue playing after his first match of the 2025 Miami Open.
Djokovic began his campaign in Miami with a straight-sets victory against Rinky Hijikata. That ended a run of defeats and was his first win since triumphing in the 2025 Australian Open quarterfinal against Carlos Alcaraz.
It was also Djokovic's first match in Miami since 2019. The tennis legend skipped the Miami Open from 2020 until 2024 because of playing fewer tournaments to focus on the Grand Slams, but is taking a different approach this season.
Djokovic, with coach Andy Murray by his side, wants to play more tournaments this season, showing how determined he is to keep himself sharp to challenge at the most significant events despite turning 38 in May.
Some doubt whether Djokovic, whose last Grand Slam title was at the 2023 US Open, can manage that. Serena Williams' former coach Rennae Stubbs recently argued that he is slowing down due to his age.
However, writing Djokovic off is dangerous. He has repeatedly proven his doubters wrong and could do so again. Winning the Miami Open would send a clear signal to those who feel he cannot keep winning at the highest level anymore.
In a press conference after he beat Hijikata, he was asked if motivation or being healthy were the most important factors in his continuing to compete. Djokovic said if he could only choose two, they were the most crucial.
"If we have to boil it down to two things, yes, staying healthy definitely, which I’ve done pretty well for most of my career, but obviously, body is not the same like it was 15 years ago, so I have to put in more time in taking care of it. But also, yeah, taking care of my psychological state and trying to get up in the morning and feel motivated to keep going and push."
Djokovic also wants to keep finding enjoyment during his matches. While the Serbian is experienced enough to know that will not happen every time he steps onto the court, he wants to capture that feeling when possible.
“And obviously, If I’m feeling and playing the way I did today, it’s pleasure and I have joy, I find joy on the court regardless of where I am. And then I want to keep going for as long as I have that feeling."
"Obviously, it’s not going to be there every match, but as long as I have that feeling of being able to compete with the guys at the highest level, I’ll keep going. You know what I mean? So the desire is there, the support of the closest people in my life is there. Let’s see how far I can go."
Djokovic's level at the 2025 Australian Open indicated he could still challenge for Grand Slams. His run to the semifinal and victory against Alcaraz in the quarterfinal was impressive before having to retire with an injury in the next round.
