Novak Djokovic makes something clear about his motivation after Nadal and Federer’s retirement

Novak Djokovic now stands as the last active member of tennis’s iconic “Big Three,” which included Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer. With 2025 marking the first season since 2003 without all three legends in the ATP Tour, questions surrounding Djokovic’s longevity have become more prominent as the 37-year-old Serbian continues to compete.

Returning to the Madrid Open after a two-year absence, Djokovic is chasing his first ATP title since 2023 and the 100th title of his career. Speaking at the 2025 Laureus World Sports Awards, the Serbian was asked whether the retirements of his longtime rivals, Nadal and Federer, have impacted his motivation.

“Maybe so, but if I’m not motivated, I’m not here. I don’t play anymore. I put the racquet to rest,” Djokovic told Eurosport Spain. “I still feel the desire to play; the passion to compete is always there. I hope to push harder. The Grand Slams are tournaments where I have more motivation to do well“.

Djokovic is looking to rebound on clay after a disappointing early exit at the Monte Carlo Masters, where he suffered a first-round defeat to Chile’s Alejandro Tabilo in what he described as a “horrible” performance.

Alejandro Tabilo of Chile shakes hands with Novak Djokovic of Serbia at the net after his victory in the Monte-Carlo Masters. (Clive Brunskill/Getty Images)

Djokovic doesn’t see himself as a favorite at the Madrid Open

The greatest Grand Slam champion in tennis history was candid about his form heading into the Madrid Masters. The Serbian star admitted that, despite his optimism, he doesn’t consider himself one of the favorites for the tournament, given his recent results this year.

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“I’m always optimistic, but I don’t know if I’m one of the favorites because I’m not having very good results this year,” Djokovic admitted. “The level I’m looking for could come here or at Roland Garros. I hope it will be here”.

Djokovic navigates a challenging start to 2025

The start of 2025 has been a mixed bag for Djokovic. While he reached the semifinals at the Australian Open and the finals at the Miami Open, inconsistent performances in Brisbane, Doha, and Indian Wells left fans questioning his form.

After his defeat to Tabilo in Monte Carlo, Djokovic withdrew from the ATP 500 events in Barcelona and Munich, choosing instead to regroup for the Madrid Open.

Looking ahead, Djokovic’s focus will shift to Rome before taking on the ultimate challenge at Roland Garros, where he’ll aim for his record-extending 25th Grand Slam title.