In a startling shift from his historic dominance Novak Djokovic finds himself navigating unfamiliar territory as he endures one of the most challenging phases of his illustrious tennis career. The 24-time Grand Slam champion who once embodied relentless consistency is now battling early tournament exits and a noticeable dip in form—both physically and mentally.
Speaking after a first-round loss at the Madrid Open Djokovic admitted that the last year has been unlike any he has experienced in his two-decade-long professional career. “For twenty years I didn’t go through what I am facing now” Djokovic said visibly drained following yet another early exit. “It’s tough to accept but it’s happening.”
Once a symbol of resilience Djokovic is heading into the French Open later this month without a single clay-court win in 2025. He has already crashed out in the early rounds of Monte Carlo and Madrid and has withdrawn from the Rome Masters citing physical and form-related concerns. Earlier in the season he also lost the Miami Open final making it three straight defeats—something that hasn’t happened to him since 2018.
This year alone Djokovic has lost his first match in four of his last five tournaments. Such setbacks have triggered reflections about his future and his readiness to stay competitive at the highest level. “It’s a completely different reality for me” the Serbian veteran admitted. “I’m just trying to win a match or two and not even thinking of reaching the latter stages of tournaments.”
Once feared for his flawless court movement and laser-sharp precision Djokovic is now showing signs of age and wear. Against Matteo Arnaldi in Madrid he committed 32 unforced errors while delivering 29 against Alejandro Tabilo in Monte Carlo. He described the latter performance as “horrible” and acknowledged that his strokes movement and overall energy aren’t what they used to be.
Adding to the complexity is his recent coaching collaboration with Andy Murray which showed promise during the Australian Open but has since faltered. Djokovic had stunned Carlos Alcaraz in that tournament before retiring due to injury in the semifinal against Alexander Zverev. That spark however hasn’t reignited in recent months.
Djokovic has fallen to players far outside the top tier including Reilly Opelka ranked 293 in Brisbane Matteo Berrettini ranked 35 in Doha and Botin van de Zandschulp ranked 85 in Indian Wells. These defeats are raising concerns about his ability to reclaim his previous dominance. Former British No.1 Annabel Croft noted that Djokovic’s current state suggests either physical discomfort or psychological distraction but whatever the cause he is clearly not in top shape.
Despite his recent slump Djokovic maintains that his focus remains on Grand Slams. Historically he has been known to peak at major tournaments and even clinched gold at the 2024 Paris Olympics. However with the French Open approaching even Djokovic himself admits he’s not among the favorites this time.
“This is the cycle of life and of a career” Djokovic reflected. “Eventually this phase was bound to come. I am choosing to use it as motivation for what’s ahead.”
As tennis enthusiasts and analysts watch closely all eyes will be on Roland Garros to see whether one of the sport’s greatest can defy time and circumstance once again or whether this truly marks the beginning of his twilight.
