Novak Djokovic has revealed that the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games is the sole professional motivation keeping him in tennis, amid ongoing speculation about his retirement plans.
Djokovic, 38, last won a Grand Slam title at the 2023 US Open. He went on to secure his first Olympic gold medal at the 2024 Paris Games by defeating Spain’s Carlos Alcaraz, but his recent performances have drawn concern.
Speaking after a semi-final loss to Jannik Sinner at Roland Garros, the 24-time Grand Slam champion admitted he had considered retirement.
“I could have said goodbye to professional tennis after this loss,” Djokovic said. “The only thing that at this moment, professionally speaking, I have in my vision is the Olympics of 2028 in Los Angeles.”
Djokovic added that while he remains interested in representing Serbia and competing in major tournaments, the Olympics now take priority.
“Playing for the national team and Grand Slams, yes. But not even the Grand Slams — not as much as the Olympics.”
A winner of 100 ATP singles titles, Djokovic has openly set his sights on surpassing Jimmy Connors’ record of 109. Yet, inconsistency and injury have hampered his recent seasons.
His long-time clothing sponsor, Lacoste, confirmed last month that Djokovic plans to continue playing professionally until at least the 2028 Olympics.
Thierry Guibert, CEO of Lacoste, told French media that the Serbian star remains committed to his training and intends to close out his career on his own terms.
Djokovic’s comments underscore a shifting focus in his final years as a professional athlete, with the Los Angeles Games appearing to serve as both a motivational milestone and likely endpoint.
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