Mouratoglou: "He used to say that 36 was the new 26... today, he talks as if he's ready to leave"
Novak Djokovic, the titan with 24 Grand Slam titles, is sending troubling signals about the possible end of a golden era. In a statement as strong as it was unexpected, Patrick Mouratoglou highlights the internal shift of the Serbian, between physical fatigue, loss of faith, and the last breath of passion for his fans.
"Time always catches up with everyone," asserts the Frenchman. And even for Novak Djokovic, this truth seems to finally be asserting itself. At 36, the one who outrageously dominated the circuit in 2023, with three Grand Slam titles and a final at the US Open, sees his body and mind wavering. In just a few months, the Serbian icon has gone from triumphant declarations: "My body is in top shape," to words heavy with resignation: "My body is not strong enough to beat Sinner or Alcaraz in five sets."
Patrick Mouratoglou's assessment is unequivocal:
"It's incredible to think that only two years ago, Novak was at the peak of his form. He was by far the best player in 2023. At that time, he said: '36 is the new 26, my body is in top shape.' Today, the message has changed. From untouchable, he has started losing to Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz.
The real issue is not whether his body is weaker, but if he seems to believe it. And this conviction is new. Earlier in his career, when he was behind Federer and Nadal, he always said: 'I will find a solution, I will be better.' Now, he says: 'The door is closed.' Motivation is harder to find once all his dreams have been realized.
Yet, he continues to play. Why? I think it's partly due to his connection with the fans. Today, people appreciate Novak more, recognize his achievements, and he reveals himself more. This new connection may be what drives him to stay on the court, even if his motivation is no longer the same."
