Novak Djokovic makes sturdy retirement assertion forward of US Open closing
Despite turning professional again in 2003, US Open finalist Novak Djokovic is way from considering retirement. After closing in on his twenty fourth Grand Slam, the Serbian star made it clear he has no intentions of calling it quits till his dominance is over.
Leveraging his expertise, Djokovic ended the unprecedented journey of American Ben Shelton on the 2023 US Open. Djokovic secured the victory with a rating of 6-3, 6-2, 7-6 (4) in a match that lasted two hours and 41 minutes, happening beneath the roof of the Arthur Ashe Stadium.
The 23-time Grand Slam champion celebrated lightheartedly after his win towards Shelton, imitating the American’s celebration. He pretended to carry a cellphone along with his proper hand, briefly bringing it near his ear, after which humorously signaled a hang-up.
Following this playful gesture, Djokovic approached the middle web and tapped his racquet on its netted floor as a pleasant greeting to Shelton, showcasing exemplary sportsmanship. He then addressed the media, the place he was requested about retirement.
“It probably sounds cocky or arrogant, but I’m not really surprised,” mentioned the Serbian, competing towards the highest younger gamers. “I know how much work and dedication I put into trying to be in this position.
“I do know I deserve this. I at all times consider in myself, in my very own capabilities as a tennis participant, to have the ability to ship when it issues.
“I am not really surprised, to be honest. I feel good physically. I have been as good as I’ve been in years and years. Age is just a number. That phrase is really resonating with me at the moment.”
Djokovic intends to remain in tennis so long as he stays on the pinnacle of his sport. He talked about that he may ponder retirement provided that he constantly faces defeat by youthful gamers in Grand Slam occasions sooner or later.
“I don’t want to even consider leaving tennis or thinking about an end if I’m still at the top of the game. I will probably consider doing that if I get my a** kicked by young guys in Grand Slams in the years to come.”
Djokovic is eyeing his third main title of the yr and his twenty fourth profession main win. This victory would put him on par with the document held by Margaret Court.
Should Djokovic emerge because the victor on this match, he would surpass Serena Williams and maintain the document for essentially the most main singles championships within the Open period. “It’s another shot for history,” mentioned the Serbian concerning breaking the document.