Is Novak Djokovic’s Dominance Dwindling? Former World No. 2 Raises Concerns Over Recent Form

Novak Djokovic, a name synonymous with tennis excellence, is facing scrutiny as his recent performances have sparked concerns about a potential decline. The Serbian superstar, who will turn 38 in May 2025, has had a start to the 2025 season that has prompted questions from analysts and fans alike, leading some to wonder if his era of dominance is nearing its end.

Djokovic’s Recent Struggles: A Cause for Concern?

Djokovic’s form in recent tournaments has been patchy, with some unexpected losses and injury concerns casting a shadow over his quest for a record-extending 25th Grand Slam title.

• Early exits: He suffered a surprising defeat at Indian Wells against Botic van de Zandschulp, a “lucky loser,” marking his third consecutive loss of the 2025 season. This is a pattern he had only experienced in 2008 and 2018. This loss follows another to Luca Nardi in 2024, making Djokovic the first top 10 player to lose to a lucky loser in two consecutive seasons at the same Masters 1000 event.
• Australian Open Semifinal Retirement: After a stellar performance against Carlos Alcaraz in the quarterfinals of the Australian Open 2025, Djokovic had to retire in the semifinals against Alexander Zverev due to an injury sustained in the previous match.
• ** admitted struggles:** Djokovic has openly acknowledged his struggles, stating he is finding it challenging to play at his desired level.

Alex Corretja’s Analysis: ‘Not as Great as Before’?

Former world No. 2 Alex Corretja has voiced concerns about Djokovic’s recent form and motivation levels. Corretja, now a TNT Sports expert, suggested that Djokovic’s losing streak might be “a bit worrying” and questioned whether his motivation remains as high as in the past.

• Losing edge: Corretja noted that when top players start struggling, opponents sense an opportunity, and approach matches with increased belief.
• Motivation: Corretja emphasized the importance of Djokovic identifying his purpose and reason for continuing to compete, suggesting that “just playing for playing does not make sense”.
• Finding solutions: Corretja believes Djokovic needs to “find solutions to feel dangerous in the tournament,” suggesting he should focus on tournaments he feels motivated to play and commit fully to those events.

Is Age Catching Up? Physical and Mental Toll

At 37 years old, questions naturally arise about whether the physical and mental demands of professional tennis are taking a toll on Djokovic.

• Diminishing Returns on Serve Returns: Djokovic’s return game, long considered a key strength, has shown signs of decline since the beginning of 2024. His first-serve return points won have decreased from a career average of 33.7% to 32.5% overall, and even further to 29.7% on hard courts in the last year.
• Breakpoint Conversion: Djokovic has also struggled to convert breakpoints as consistently as in the past. His career breakpoint conversion rate of 44.1% has dropped to 41.5% overall in the last 52 weeks, and a concerning 37.7% on hard courts during the same period.
• Reduced Tenacity: Niki Pilic, Djokovic’s former mentor, stated back in 2017 that Djokovic had lost the tenacity that enabled him to dominate men’s tennis for years, adding that “the hard work of the last five or six years has taken its toll.”

The Competition Heats Up: The Rise of Young Stars

Djokovic’s path to Grand Slam titles is further complicated by the emergence of a new generation of talented players.

• Alcaraz and Sinner: Players like Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner have already proven they can challenge and defeat Djokovic on multiple occasions, bringing a new level of athleticism and firepower to the court.
• Medvedev and Zverev: Daniil Medvedev and Alexander Zverev have also emerged as consistent contenders, with Zverev defeating Djokovic in the semifinals of the Australian Open 2025.

Djokovic’s Response: Increased Tournament Appearances and Coaching Changes

Despite the concerns, Djokovic appears determined to address his recent struggles and remain a force in the sport.

• More tournaments: Djokovic seems to be increasing his tournament schedule in 2025, potentially reversing a previous plan to become more of a “part-time” player, This suggests a renewed commitment to competition and a desire to regain his competitive edge.
• Andy Murray as Coach: In a surprising move, Djokovic has enlisted former rival Andy Murray as a coach, a partnership aimed at shaking up his approach and potentially unlocking new strategies. Alex Corretja noted this could be bad news for Djokovic’s rivals.

Aiming for Records: Motivation Still Burning?

Despite his recent setbacks, Djokovic still has several significant milestones within reach, which could serve as powerful motivators.

• 25th Grand Slam: Winning another Grand Slam would give him the outright record for most major titles, surpassing Margaret Court.
• 100th Title: Djokovic is also nearing his 100th tour-level title, a feat only achieved by Jimmy Connors and Roger Federer.
• Miami Open Record: Djokovic is aiming for a record seventh Miami Open title, which would move him ahead of Andre Agassi. He will play his next match on March 21, 2025, against R64P47 in the Miami Open.

Can Djokovic Reclaim His Throne?

Whether Novak Djokovic can rediscover his dominant form remains to be seen. His unparalleled achievements, mental fortitude, and relentless pursuit of excellence suggest he cannot be written off. However, the increasing challenges from younger rivals, the physical demands of the sport, and the questions surrounding his motivation create a compelling narrative as he continues his quest for further glory.