Novak Djokovic’s pursuit of a record 25th major title was halted when he lost to Jannik Sinner in the Wimbledon semifinals. The Serbian star appeared to struggle physically throughout the match, falling in straight sets and marking his third Grand Slam semifinal loss this year. Despite growing speculation about Djokovic’s future in the sport, former world number one Andy Roddick has firmly pushed back against suggestions that Djokovic should retire, highlighting his exceptional achievements at age 38.

Roddick, speaking on his Served with Andy Roddick podcast, emphasized that Djokovic’s current form should not be underestimated, reminding listeners that the 24-time Grand Slam champion has consistently defied expectations this year despite physical challenges. He stressed that Djokovic’s performance level, especially at such an advanced age in tennis terms, remains extraordinary.

Just to put things in perspective and so we don’t place Novak expectations on everything that he does,

said Roddick.

It’s like we get used to get therefore we adjust expectations.

Expanding on this, Roddick pointed out that Djokovic, at 38, has reached the semifinals of the first three majors this year while battling ongoing physical issues. He described the achievement as “absurd,” noting that even great players rarely sustain such consistency at that age.

“I understand there are two players that are better than him, pretty much every day now. I get that,”

Roddick said, dismissing the common argument used to question Djokovic’s status.

“That counter is stupid to me, I don’t want to hear it. Based against 38-year-olds, there are a lot of good players. People who were good players, myself included, who never had three semis in a year in Slams – actually that’s a lie I did one time – but not the first three of the year!”

He also referenced Djokovic’s resilience, citing moments such as nearly winning Masters 1000 titles, reaching the Wimbledon final last year despite injury, and his wins over Carlos Alcaraz in recent tournaments. Roddick expressed hope that Djokovic will continue playing for as long as he desires.

For me it’s like he knows how to win majors. Does he believe he can do it against these two? I don’t think we will ever get a sober answer, and who knows. We can’t answer for him and I would never try to.

Looking ahead to 2025, Roddick said,

“If he plays next year we are all better for it in the tennis world. All of us.”

He warned against premature calls for Djokovic’s retirement should he lose early in any future Grand Slams.

You have to be really good at your job to criticise any part of what we see from Novak from here on out. What he has accomplished at 38 years old is unbelievable. It’s phenomenal.

Recent Rivals Who Have Defeated Djokovic in 2024

Djokovic’s year has been marked by physical setbacks influencing his Grand Slam performances. He had to retire against Alexander Zverev in the Australian Open semifinal in January and was also defeated by Jannik Sinner in straight sets once again at Roland Garros. These results reflect some of the difficulties he faces maintaining peak condition across the ATP Tour.

Despite these challenges, Djokovic’s results at the Grand Slams have remained stronger than his general ATP Tour performances, highlighting the importance he places on major tournaments as his career advances. With Wimbledon concluded, attention is now turning toward the US Open and the lead-up events.

Djokovic is scheduled to participate in two warm-up tournaments before the US Open, starting with the Canadian Open in Toronto, which will begin on Monday, July 28. His activity in these events will offer further insight into his form and intentions for the remainder of the season.

The Ongoing Impact of Djokovic’s Longevity in Tennis

Andy Roddick’s perspective sheds light on the remarkable longevity Djokovic has demonstrated amid speculation about his retirement. At 38, Djokovic continues to compete at a level few of his peers have ever approached, sustaining performances that once defined his peak years despite physical setbacks.

This endurance not only challenges typical expectations of athletic career length in tennis but also keeps the sport’s competitive landscape vibrant. Djokovic’s presence ensures ongoing debates about the greatest players of all time, while also inspiring both fans and fellow competitors.

As Djokovic prepares for upcoming tournaments, the tennis world remains eager to see whether he will extend his record-breaking career. Roddick’s comments underline the significance of respecting Djokovic’s achievements and contributions, regardless of the results ahead.