Nick Kyrgios has hinted at the possible retirement of tennis legend Novak Djokovic, following a candid backstage conversation at Indian Wells earlier this year. The 38-year-old Serbian icon, known for his unmatched Grand Slam legacy, seems to be at a crossroads in his career, especially after back-to-back defeats against Jannik Sinner at both the French Open and Wimbledon.
While Djokovic remains a dominant force in tennis, he appears to be struggling to maintain his previous edge against rising stars such as Carlos Alcaraz and Sinner. With every major tournament, the reality of Djokovic’s aging body and the increasing intensity of younger competitors raise more questions about how long he will continue.
During an episode of the All on the Table podcast, Kyrgios shared an intimate conversation he had with Djokovic in the locker room. “I asked him why he’s still playing,” Kyrgios recalled. “And he said, ‘I don’t know.’” The response came as a surprise to Kyrgios, who believes Djokovic might already be contemplating life after tennis.
Kyrgios also pointed to family as a significant influence on Djokovic’s thoughts about retirement. The Serbian star, who shares two children with wife Jelena, has often been seen accompanied by his family on tour. “I asked him, what about your kids? He just said, ‘Yeah, I don’t know.’ That was the first time I saw how much he misses them,” Kyrgios added.
Djokovic had previously hinted during his French Open semifinal loss that his time at the top might be nearing its end. Speculation has grown stronger since then, especially after his Wimbledon defeat, where he waved to the Centre Court crowd with a gesture that many interpreted as a possible farewell.
Kyrgios believes Djokovic might not last another full season. “I can’t see him doing another whole year. He’s too professional, but I just feel like family might come first now,” said the Australian, who is expected to return to the circuit during the US Open.
Should Djokovic decide to step away, he would be the last of the ‘Big Four’ to do so, following the retirements of Roger Federer, Andy Murray, and Rafael Nadal. While the competitive fire likely still burns, the signs are clear — Novak Djokovic may soon hang up his racquet and begin a new chapter off the court.
