NEW YORK — Novak Djokovic, the tennis maestro, has had a rollercoaster of a season in 2024. After clinching Olympic gold in Paris, he suffered a shocking defeat to Alexei Popyrin in the third round of the U.S. Open, capping off what could potentially be his first title-less season since 2005. Despite this, Djokovic considers his Olympic win as the “greatest achievement of his career”.
Known for his insatiable hunger for victories, Djokovic has always aimed for the stars. But this year, at 37, he seems to be coming to terms with the inevitability of aging. While he can still produce flashes of brilliance, he is no longer the dominant force he once was.
Defeats to lesser-known players like Tabilo, Machac, Nardi, and Popyrin, alongside drubbings from his rivals Sinner and Alcaraz, paint a picture of Djokovic’s fading prowess. Despite battling back from knee surgery to reach the Wimbledon final, the stark reality of his limitations has become more evident.
His loss to Popyrin at the U.S. Open highlighted Djokovic’s struggles on the court. His service game, once a weapon, failed him as he made uncharacteristic errors. Djokovic admitted that the quick turnaround from the Olympic triumph left him mentally and physically drained for the U.S. Open.
While Djokovic’s Olympic gold shines brightly in his career, his lackluster performance at the U.S. Open casts a shadow over his otherwise stellar resume. As he looks ahead to the Australian Open, the tennis world eagerly awaits to see if Djokovic can reclaim his former glory or if a new chapter is beginning in his illustrious career.
Novak Djokovic left New York without a Grand Slam title to his name this year. (Angela Weiss / AFP via Getty Images)
Alexei Popyrin overcame a wobble midway through the match to seize control in the fourth set. (Sarah Stier / Getty Images)
In conclusion, Djokovic’s 2024 season has been a blend of triumphs and tribulations, setting the stage for an intriguing 2025 where the tennis legend’s resilience and adaptability will be put to the test once again.
(Top photo: Charly Triballeau / AFP via Getty Images)
