The world of tennis has been paralyzed.Goran Ivanisevic, Novak Djokovic’s coach, announced that the Serbian will not participate in theNitto ATP Finals 2025, one of the most anticipated competitions of the year. The reason is not an injury or a technical decision: it is an unprecedented personal crisis.
The news was confirmed during an impromptu press conference in Belgrade.Ivanisevic, visibly affected, explained that Djokovic “is on the brink of an emotional abyss” and that he needs time to focus on his family. The message, accompanied by a plea to the public to “understand their situation,” generated a wave of global support and concern.
Sources close to the world number one’s environmentThey assure that the family situation has deteriorated since mid-2024. His wife,Jelena Djokovic, would have submitted a request foremergency divorcealleging “irreconcilable differences over the past 18 months.” This statement, presented in a Belgrade court, unleashed a media storm in a matter of hours.
Rumors about tensions between the couple are not new.In recent months, several Serbian media had pointed out that Jelena and Novak led separate lives due to the player’s constant travel and intense schedule. However, no one imagined that the outcome would be so abrupt and public.
The psychological impact on Djokovic has been evident, according to people in his inner circle. The champion would have canceled training and meetings with sponsors. “He can’t concentrate; his priority is his family,” said a member of his team. Fans, meanwhile, express sadness but also understanding for the difficult decision.
On social media, the reaction has been overwhelming.Thousands of messages of support flooded the platforms with the hashtag #FuerzaDjoker. Some fans asked for respect and privacy, while others regretted the Serbian’s absence at the ATP Finals, an event where Djokovic was seeking his eighth historic title.
Goran Ivanisevic emphasized that this is not a final withdrawal.“Novak loves tennis more than anyone, but now he needs to heal,” declared the Croatian. “Sometimes even champions must stop to rebuild themselves from within.” His words resonated with a sincerity that moved journalists and followers.
The player’s professional environment remains silent.Neither his agency nor the tournament organizers have issued official statements regarding possible sanctions or replacements. However, the ATP expressed “deep respect for Djokovic’s personal decision” and wished him strength in this difficult time.
Sports experts highlight the magnitude of the event.Djokovic, with 24 Grand Slam titles, is more than a player: he is a symbol of resistance and excellence. His absence in the end-of-season tournament marks a before and after, not only in his career, but also in the recent history of world tennis.
The future of the Serbian champion remains uncertain.Some analysts believe he could return at the 2026 Australian Open, while others fear a premature retirement. For now, the only thing clear is that Novak Djokovic faces the most difficult match of his life: that of keeping his family together and rediscovering inner peace.
Novak Djokovic’s story transcends sport. His decision to prioritize his personal life over the competition shows that, behind the myth, there is a vulnerable human being. The tennis world, although surprised, applauds his bravery and wishes him a speedy emotional recovery.
