As the tennis world anticipates the upcoming Wimbledon Championships, the focus is sharply placed on Novak Djokovic, who has entered a phase of his illustrious career marked by a Grand Slam drought since his triumph at the 2023 US Open. This situation has sparked discussions within the sport, particularly about the ongoing viability of Djokovic as a top contender for major titles. His former coach Goran Ivanisevic, who currently mentors Stefanos Tsitsipas, remains optimistic about Djokovic’s capabilities despite the Serbian star facing a challenging season.
Historically, the thought of Djokovic finishing a calendar year without securing a Grand Slam title would have seemed implausible. Since his rise to prominence in 2011, there have only been two instances where he ended a season without a major win, with 2017 and 2024 marking these rare occurrences. Currently, Djokovic has yet to find success in 2025, increasing concern among fans and experts alike.
If Djokovic fails to clinch the title at Wimbledon this year, he will match his longest stretch of consecutive Grand Slam tournaments without a victory since 2011, an unsettling prospect for a player of his caliber. However, Ivanisevic expresses confidence in Djokovic’s resilience and potential.
In a recent discussion with journalist Sasa Ozmo, Ivanisevic reflected on his experience watching Djokovic practice alongside Tsitsipas in London. The former champion noted, “It was a joy to watch… such ease of movement, ease of play. The ball flies at 300 km/h thanks to his technique and timing.” This admiration underscores Ivanisevic’s belief that Djokovic still possesses the skills necessary to compete at the highest level.
Looking ahead, Djokovic has contemplated participation in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, and Ivanisevic sees this ambition as attainable. He remarked, “If you look at that, he can play until LA… he looks ready, playing well.” Nonetheless, he acknowledged that motivation is key, particularly as Djokovic approaches his 38th year. Managing nerves will be crucial, especially given the pressures of high-stakes competitions.
Evaluating Djokovic’s recent performances paints a picture of a player grappling with unexpected setbacks. Last year, he experienced a semi-final exit at the Australian Open, withdrew before the French Open’s quarter-finals, lost in the Wimbledon final, and was ousted in the third round of the US Open. This current season has seen him retire during a semi-final match at the Australian Open and subsequently lose to Jannik Sinner in the French Open semi-finals. Ivanisevic believes that had Djokovic remained healthy, he would have easily bested Alexander Zverev in Melbourne.
Importantly, Ivanisevic emphasizes that this year’s Wimbledon is not Djokovic’s last opportunity for a Grand Slam title. He forecasts future chances, including the upcoming US Open. “It’s not his last chance,” Ivanisevic stated confidently. “In Melbourne this year, if he hadn’t gotten injured, there’s no way Zverev beats him, and the final with Sinner would have been interesting.”
As the anticipation builds for Wimbledon, the questions surrounding Djokovic’s form and future remain paramount. While challenges lie ahead, Ivanisevic’s insights offer a glimmer of hope that the distinguished Serbian champion can still return to his winning ways on tennis’s biggest stages.