Former world No. 1 Jimmy Connors has shared his candid perspective on Novak Djokovic’s future in tennis, particularly following the Serbian’s early exit from the 2025 Australian Open. Djokovic, forced to retire due to injury, was leading Alexander Zverev in their semi-final match when he was compelled to withdraw after dropping the opening set. Despite the setback, the 37-year-old had displayed remarkable form, securing victories over Tomas Machac, Jiri Lehecka, and Carlos Alcaraz to reach the semi-finals.
However, the world No. 7’s hopes of extending his Australian Open dominance — aiming for a record-extending 11th title and 25th Grand Slam — were dashed by a hamstring tear that occurred during his quarter-final clash with Alcaraz. Now, Connors, who boasts eight Grand Slam titles of his own, has weighed in on Djokovic’s campaign in Melbourne and what lies ahead for the iconic player.
Speaking on his Advantage Connors podcast, the tennis legend reflected on Djokovic’s challenging draw in Melbourne, which saw him face the formidable trio of Alcaraz, Zverev, and potentially Jannik Sinner. “He had a tough draw,” Connors noted. “He had to play Alcaraz, then Zverev, then Sinner if he won. That’s the reality when you’re not in the top two, three, or four.”
Connors also acknowledged the relentless demands of professional tennis, especially for players like Djokovic who have been at the top for years. “Everybody thinks I’m going to play forever, and sure, you can, but it’s about what level you want to play at,” Connors explained. “The older you get, those long rallies and the pressure to chase that extra ball start to take a toll, both physically and mentally. And the recovery time after a long match just doesn’t happen as quickly.”
While Connors was quick to praise Djokovic’s dedication to maintaining peak physical condition, he emphasized that age, unfortunately, is an opponent that no one can outlast. “Nobody takes care of themselves better than Djokovic. He does everything possible to stay in shape and keep playing the tennis he loves. But at the end of the day, there’s one opponent you can never beat — age.”
Connors, who has also experienced the inevitable challenges of aging in tennis, reflected on the often-dreaded retirement conversation that looms over players at the tail end of their careers. “I hate to talk about it because Djokovic has been, and still is, an incredible champion, just like Federer and Nadal. You get tired of hearing: ‘When are you going to retire?’ I know I did!”
As for Djokovic, Connors expressed his admiration for the Serb’s playing style and his relentless competitive spirit. “I’ve always rooted for him. I love his game — the way he takes the ball early, moves forward, and his return game. I’ve been cheering for him since the beginning, and I’m still cheering for him now. I respect any player willing to go out there and give everything, putting it all on the line.”
However, Connors acknowledged the difficult decision that lies ahead for Djokovic, who will eventually have to make the call on when to walk away from the sport he’s dominated for two decades. “Don’t tell him when to retire — he will know when it’s time to move on. But I can’t imagine what that moment will feel like after 20 years of giving everything to the game. It will be a tough day to wake up and realize, ‘I’m not doing this anymore.'”
With these thoughts, Connors not only shed light on the challenges facing Djokovic but also conveyed his unwavering support for the tennis great, who continues to push the boundaries of the sport despite the natural progression of time.