Djokovic Aims for Record 25th Slam at Wimbledon Amid Retirement Speculation

WIMBLEDON, England – Novak Djokovic, the Serbian tennis legend, is once again facing questions about his future as he prepares for Wimbledon. The recurring inquiries about whether each tournament might be his last have become a familiar part of his Grand Slam routine.

During a pre-tournament press conference, Djokovic addressed the speculation, mirroring his previous responses. "Whether it could be my 'last dance,'" he acknowledged, "I'm not sure – as I'm not sure about Roland Garros or any other Slam that I play next."

While attempting to quell retirement rumors, Djokovic, now 38, balanced his ambition with realism. He expressed his desire to continue playing at the highest level for several more years, emphasizing the importance of physical and mental well-being. "My wish is to play for several more years. I would love to be healthy physically and also mentally motivated to keep on playing at the highest level," he stated. "That's the goal. But you never know at this stage."

However, Djokovic conceded that Wimbledon might be his best opportunity to secure a record-extending 25th Grand Slam singles title. "I would probably agree that Wimbledon could be the best chance, because of the results I had, because of how I feel, how I play in Wimbledon," Djokovic explained. He highlighted the mental boost and motivation he derives from the tournament. He is set to face Alexandre Muller in the first round on Tuesday.

The All England Club has been a happy hunting ground for Djokovic, where he has clinched seven championships. Although he narrowly missed an eighth title, losing to Carlos Alcaraz in both the 2023 and 2024 finals, his dominance on grass is undeniable.

Djokovic's impressive Wimbledon record includes reaching the title match in his last six appearances (excluding the canceled 2020 tournament). He secured victories in 2018, 2019, 2021, and 2022. His last defeat prior to the Alcaraz finals was in the 2017 quarterfinals against Tomas Berdych.

The constant questions about his future are a familiar experience for tennis legends nearing the end of their careers, a path previously trodden by Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, and Serena Williams.

Despite not having won a Grand Slam title in over a year, following his US Open victory in September 2023, Djokovic remains a formidable contender.

He reminded everyone of his semifinal appearance at the Australian Open earlier this year, which was cut short due to a hamstring injury after one set. He also reached the French Open semifinals this month, where he lost to Jannik Sinner. After that match, Djokovic paid an emotional tribute to Roland Garros, hinting that it might have been his last appearance there.

Furthermore, Djokovic clinched a gold medal for Serbia at the Paris Olympics by defeating Alcaraz, showcasing his continued competitiveness against top players.

"These tournaments give me the biggest drive, still," Djokovic affirmed. "I like the way I feel right now, physically. Tennis-wise, I've been playing good in the practice sessions. Obviously completely different when you start a tournament. I'll try to have a very good tournament and go as far as I can."