After Sinner's defeat, Djokovic answers the question on everyone's lips: Was this his last tournament?
Translated from Romanian, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Novak Djokovic was eliminated from Wimbledon in the semifinals by Jannik Sinner.
- Djokovic expressed a desire to return to Wimbledon at least one more time.
- The 39-year-old Serbian player reflected on his performance, calling it "not good enough" by his own high standards.
London โ Novak Djokovic's quest for a record-extending 25th Grand Slam title was halted at Wimbledon on Friday, as he was defeated in straight sets by Italian Jannik Sinner in the semifinals. Sinner secured a 6-4, 6-4, 6-4 victory, advancing to face Alexander Zverev in the final.
Djokovic, 39, was directly asked after the match if this marked his final appearance at the prestigious tournament. "I would like to come back to Wimbledon, at least one more time. We'll see!" Djokovic responded, leaving his future participation open-ended.
I would like to come back to Wimbledon, at least one more time. We'll see!
Reflecting on his Grand Slam season, which included a final appearance at the Australian Open and a semifinal finish at Wimbledon, Djokovic acknowledged it would be considered excellent for most players. However, he admitted it fell short of his own exceptionally high expectations.
For 99% of players, this would be a very good record. For me, it's good, but not good enough.
"For 99% of players, this would be a very good record. For me, it's good, but not good enough," Djokovic stated. He described his situation as both "blessed and cursed" to be accustomed to the highest standards of results. "I'm fighting with myself, trying to tell myself: 'Look, it's great that you can still play at such a high level and push the young guys to the limit,'" he added, acknowledging the encouragement from those around him.
Despite the validation of his continued high-level performance, Djokovic confessed to disappointment. "Of course, I am disappointed. Of course, I wanted to win Wimbledon. That's why I'm still pushing myself so hard. I just lost to a better player today!" he concluded.
Of course, I am disappointed. Of course, I wanted to win Wimbledon. That's why I'm still pushing myself so hard. I just lost to a better player today!
Originally published by Adevฤrul in Romanian. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.