Novak Djokovic’s retirement plan revealed, won’t mirror Rafael Nadal’s sudden exit: 'A few farewell tournaments'

A journalist, who has been close to Novak Djokovic, has revealed that there are high chances the Serbian tennis star will have a retirement tour, not ending his career in an abrupt manner as Rafael Nadal did. Having not won a Grand Slam in two years, there are rumours that Djokovic may hang up his boots in 2026.

The 38-year-old Djokovic, however, has already stressed that he doesn't plan to retire soon. But his growing age or an injury may spoil his plans. The same was the case with Nadal, who was forced to retire in October 2024 due to recurring injury issues.

Djokovic’s retirement plan revealed

But Sport Klub and Clay journalist Saša Ozmo, who is seen as a Djokovic camp insider, has said that the fans must not worry as Novak would make the retirement decision in advance, and bid goodbye to the sport by playing a few farewell tournaments.

“Knowing Novak, he’ll do his best to have a farewell tour, to maybe go to some of the places he didn’t visit as a player that much and go to some of the places that were his favourite tournaments,” Ozmo told Express Sport.

More from Football

Novak Djokovic withdraws from Adelaide International, to return to action directly at Australian Open Australian Open organisers announce record prize money for upcoming edition: 'Sustainable for all competitors'

“I don’t expect it to be a full year, let’s say a retirement year, like [NBA great] Kobe Bryant had, for example, but a few tournaments; I don’t expect it to be abrupt.”

Djokovic recently said that he would want to continue playing till 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles.

Ozmo added that it’s going to be tough even for someone like Djokovic, who is known for his fitness, as age catches up with people.

“I mean, it’s crazy, but he’s been known to want and succeed in doing crazy things. So, playing until LA 2028 is a huge goal, considering he has been very injury-prone over the last couple of years." Ozmo added.

“It’s just like with everybody, the older you get, the more problems with your body you have. And even though Novak probably was one of the fittest athletes ever, when it comes to taking care of his body, nutrition and whatnot, but still, you can’t beat Father Time; he is obviously looking to postpone it as far as he can.”

Djokovic last won a Grand Slam at the US Open 2023. His last Grand Slam final was at Wimbledon in 2024. But last year, he reached the semi-finals of all majors, underlining that he is not far from winning a record 25th Grand Slam.