The tennis world woke up shocked. Novak Djokovic, current number one in the world ranking, officially announced his withdrawal from the last Masters 1000 of the 2025 season. What seemed like a sporting decision hid a much more painful reality.
Djokovic, always an example of mental strength and discipline, surprised by revealing the true reasons in an exclusive interview. It was not an injury or the inevitable wear and tear of the years. The Serb, with a broken voice, confessed that he is facing a family tragedy that has left him “without the strength to concentrate or compete.”
The impact was immediate. Social networks were flooded with messages of support. “I can still beat anyone on the court,” Nole said, “but when you see your people suffer, tennis takes a backseat.” With those words, he made it clear that his priority now is to be with his family in one of the hardest moments of his life.
According to sources close to the player’s environment, a serious health problem affects a very beloved member of his family. Although Djokovic avoided going into details, his look and tone reflected deep sadness. “I have won many trophies, but now my most important victory will be accompanying mine,” he added with unshed tears.
The ATP circuit also reacted with shock. Rafael Nadal, a friend and historical rival, was one of the first to send him a public message of encouragement. “Tennis can wait. Family is the most important thing,” he wrote on social media. Other players like Federer and Alcaraz also showed their respect and solidarity with the Serbian.
The organizers of the Paris Masters 1000 officially confirmed his withdrawal a few hours after the announcement. “We completely respect his decision. Novak is more than a champion, he is an exceptional person,” they declared in a statement. Tickets for the tournament were also sold out, but the public knows that the usual competitive soul will be missing.
Djokovic, 38, did not mention whether his retirement is temporary or permanent. However, his words made many think that it could be the beginning of goodbye. “There are things that break your heart more than a defeat. Right now, I need to be a son, husband and father,” he confessed with a sincerity that moved the world.
Meanwhile, in Serbia, hundreds of fans gathered outside his academy in Belgrade to show their support. Between banners and candles, they chanted his name and sent prayers for his family. “You have always fought for us, now we fight for you,” read one of them.
Novak Djokovic’s future in tennis is uncertain. But what leaves no doubt is the human legacy left with this decision. In a sport dominated by fierce competition, his gesture shows that even the greatest know when to stop and embrace what is truly essential: love and family.
Time will tell if Nole will pick up the racket again. For now, the champion is retiring not because of a defeat on the court, but to face the toughest battle of his life: the one fought outside the stadium, in the silence of home and in the hearts of those he loves most.
