Paris, France – In an emotional and perhaps poignant exit from Roland Garros, Novak Djokovic, the 24-time Grand Slam champion, savored a rare outpouring of affection from the Parisian crowd after his hard-fought semi-final defeat at the French Open 2025. His gestures and post-match comments left many speculating that this might have been his final appearance on the red clay of Paris.
An Emotional Goodbye to Roland Garros?
Following his semi-final loss to eventual finalist Jannik Sinner, Djokovic made a deliberate and heartfelt farewell gesture to the Court Philippe Chatrier faithful. He placed his racket bags on the clay, bent to touch the surface he has graced so many times, and then, with a hand to his heart, waved to the adoring crowd. This deeply symbolic act, coupled with his subsequent remarks, strongly suggested a potential retirement from the French Open.
“This could have been the last match ever I played here, I don’t know,” a visibly emotional Djokovic stated in his press conference. “That’s why it was a bit more emotional at the end. But if this was the farewell match of Roland Garros for me in my career, it was a wonderful one in terms of the atmosphere and what I got from the crowd.”
The 38-year-old Serb acknowledged the incredible support he received, a level he admitted he had “never experienced this much support in this stadium in my career in big matches.” This appreciation for the crowd’s energy, even in defeat, underscored the significance of the moment.
Future Plans: Wimbledon and US Open Firm, Beyond Unsure
While hinting at a Parisian swansong, Djokovic was more definitive about his immediate Grand Slam ambitions. He confirmed his intent to compete at both Wimbledon and the US Open in 2025.
“Wimbledon is next, which is my childhood favorite tournament. I’m going to do everything possible to get myself ready,” he declared. He further added, “My best chances maybe are Wimbledon to win another Slam or a faster hard court, maybe Australia.”
This statement highlights Djokovic’s strategic focus on the Grand Slams as he navigates the twilight of his illustrious career. The grass courts of Wimbledon, where he has won seven titles, clearly remain a primary target for securing a record-extending 25th major.
However, when pressed about his participation in future French Opens or the 2026 season in general, Djokovic remained noncommittal. “Twelve months at this point in my career is quite a long time. Do I wish to play more? Yes, I do. But will I be able to play in 12 months’ time here again? I don’t know. That’s all I can say for the moment.”
The New Generation’s Pressure
Djokovic’s defeat to Jannik Sinner, a rising star who, along with Carlos Alcaraz, represents the sport’s new guard, also underscored the evolving landscape of men’s tennis. He admitted the challenge posed by these younger, relentless opponents.
“That’s what these kinds of guys, Sinner and Alcaraz particularly, present on the court,” Djokovic noted. “They put pressure, so they’re constantly on you and basically increase the pressure as the match progresses.”
Despite a muscular issue that had bothered him throughout the tournament, Djokovic put up a valiant fight, proving he’s not yet ready to concede his place at the pinnacle of the sport without a battle. His commitment to Wimbledon and the US Open demonstrates his enduring drive to compete for the biggest titles, even as he contemplates the eventual end of his remarkable journey.
