By Richard Pagliaro | @Tennis_Now | Saturday, April 26, 2025
Photo credit: Mutua Madrid Open Facebook
Novak Djokovic met an unexpected fate today, concluding his run at the Madrid Open with a 6-3, 6-4 defeat against Matteo Arnaldi, marking what could be his final appearance in the tournament.
Right after the match, Djokovic reflected on the possibility that this misstep could indeed signal the end of his journey in Madrid.
The seasoned 37-year-old maestro expressed uncertainty about returning to the court in Madrid again, citing this as his third consecutive loss in the tournament.
“It’s a possibility. Honestly, I’m not sure if I’ll be back,” Djokovic shared with media. “I hope it’s not my last time here, but anything is possible.”
The daunting reality facing Djokovic resonates with legends like Pancho Gonzalez, Ken Rosewall, Billie Jean King, Martina Navratilova, Jimmy Connors, Andre Agassi, Roger Federer, and Rafael Nadal. As players age, they often find it necessary to limit their schedules, striving to preserve their health for Grand Slam events. However, this reduction in appearances can lead to a loss of momentum, confidence, and match sharpness.
What used to be a routine rally for Djokovic now sometimes falls short, especially in Madrid’s higher climate, where every point can shift the tide.
Nineteen years after his inaugural victory over Richard Gasquet in Madrid, Djokovic is now grappling with a “new reality,” experiencing his second three-match losing streak of the season.
Throughout his illustrious career, the king of Grand Slams has always aimed for victory. Now, however, he acknowledges the growing difficulty of winning matches.
“This is a different reality for me,” Djokovic admitted. “Now I’m focusing on winning a match or two, rather than reaching deep into tournaments, which feels quite different from my 20-plus years in professional tennis. Adjusting to these sensations on the court can be a significant challenge, especially with early exits becoming more common. Yet, that’s just life—this transition was bound to happen,” he added with a smile.
Last August, Djokovic delivered a stellar performance, triumphing over Carlos Alcaraz with a thrilling score of 7-6, 7-6 to secure the Olympic gold for Serbia.
With aspirations for a landmark 100th title and an unprecedented 25th Grand Slam win, Djokovic remains focused on significant goals. He recognizes the bigger picture: with Alcaraz sidelined by injury and world No. 1 Jannik Sinner preparing to return for Rome, both top contenders might not be at their best heading into Paris.
This gives Djokovic glimmers of hope, yet he understands that success is paramount—and right now, he’s finding that elusive win hard to come by.
“I’m using this experience as motivation for future endeavors,” Djokovic conveyed. “Grand Slams have always been my number one priority. It doesn’t mean I didn’t want to win here because I did. But ultimately, Grand Slams are where I aim to showcase my best tennis.”
“I’m uncertain if I’ll manage that at Roland Garros, but I’m committed to giving it my all.”
With Roland Garros set to commence on May 25th, questions loom: Can Djokovic regain his game and regain his confidence in the coming month? If he goes deep in Paris, how will the physical toll impact his chances at Wimbledon—an event many believe represents his best opportunity for a 25th Grand Slam?
These uncertainties form the construct of his “new reality.”
In light of his current three-match downturn, Djokovic does not see himself as a frontrunner for the French Open, and he hopes this lack of expectation will lessen some of the pressure he faces when aiming to clinch his first title since his triumph in Paris.
“Pressure is an inevitable part of our sport and what we do at this elite level,” Djokovic stated. “It’s not something that will ever vanish; it simply shifts. Yet every time I step onto the court, I feel the adrenaline, the stress, and the excitement—all emotions that every player experiences.”
“I still relish competition, though it has grown more challenging, to be frank. Regardless, I’ll strive to give my best for what’s ahead. As I prepare for Roland Garros, I won’t enter as one of the top favorites. Perhaps that could be advantageous; time will tell.”
