Novak Djokovic, the Serbian tennis icon, is once again at the center of the tennis world’s attention—not just for his relentless pursuit of history, but for the calculated risks he’s taking with his 2025 schedule. After withdrawing from the Cincinnati Open, Djokovic has confirmed he will compete in just two more tournaments before the season ends, with the US Open taking top billing as he chases an unprecedented 25th Grand Slam title.
Strategic Withdrawals and a Laser Focus on History
Djokovic’s decision to skip both the Canadian Open and Cincinnati Masters—key warm-up events for the US Open—sent shockwaves through the tennis community. The 38-year-old cited a groin injury from Wimbledon and a desire to prioritize family time as reasons for his absence, but insiders say there’s a bigger story: Djokovic is no longer interested in grinding through the ATP’s grueling Masters 1000 circuit. Instead, he’s laser-focused on Grand Slams, the only stages where he believes true legacy is made.
“I no longer enjoy the two-week tournaments,” Djokovic recently admitted, referring to the Masters events. “My focus is solely on Grand Slams.” This shift in priorities is a stark departure from his earlier career, when he dominated the full ATP calendar. Now, every decision is about maximizing his chances at the majors—especially the US Open, where a fifth title would break his tie with Margaret Court for the most Grand Slam singles titles in history.
US Open 2025: A Rocky Start, But the Champion’s Resolve Shines
Djokovic’s return to competition at the US Open has been anything but smooth. In his second-round match, he dropped the first set to American qualifier Zachary Svajda, a player ranked outside the top 140. But true to form, Djokovic battled back, winning the next three sets to advance to the third round for a record-equalling 19th time.
“I wasn’t really happy about my tennis for the first part of the match,” Djokovic confessed after the win. “But credit to Zach for playing some high-quality tennis.” The Serbian star admitted to feeling “not that great” physically, a nod to the wear and tear that comes with age. Still, he remains optimistic: “That’s what I’m hoping, the deeper I go into the tournament the better I feel about my game.”
Despite the slow start, Djokovic’s resilience was on full display. After falling behind early in the third set, he reeled off five straight games to seize control, eventually winning 11 of the final 12 games. The victory also marked his 191st hard-court Grand Slam match win, tying another record, and his 75th appearance in the last 32 of a major, surpassing Roger Federer.
What’s Next for Djokovic?
With Cincinnati behind him, Djokovic’s 2025 schedule is down to two confirmed events: the US Open and the ATP Finals. The ATP Finals, held in Turin, Italy, is the season-ending championship for the world’s top eight players. While Djokovic has dominated this event in the past, all eyes are on Flushing Meadows, where history beckons.
If Djokovic can navigate the US Open draw and claim a 25th major, he’ll not only cement his status as the greatest men’s player of all time but also send a clear message about the power of selective scheduling in the twilight of a legendary career.
The Bigger Picture: A New Blueprint for Tennis Greatness?
Djokovic’s approach raises questions about the future of men’s tennis. As the sport’s biggest stars age, will others follow his lead, skipping smaller tournaments to focus on the Slams? For now, Djokovic is writing his own playbook—one that could redefine how champions manage their careers in the modern era.
For fans, the message is clear: Djokovic is all-in on the US Open. Whether he can summon one more magical run remains to be seen, but the stakes—and the drama—have never been higher.
Sources
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Novak Djokovic Confirms 2 Events Before 2025 Season Ends After Withdrawing From Cincinnati Open2.
Djokovic fights off qualifier to make US Open third round3.
US Open 2025: Novak Djokovic Sets Priority Clear ahead of his 25th Grand Slam Title Quest
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13. Novak Djokovic Faces Big Wimbledon 2025 Setback That Could Derail Bid for 24th Grand Slam Title
14. Novak Djokovic
