Paris Masters tournament director Cedric Pioline believes that Novak Djokovic has decided to “manage his body” as he reacted to the Serb’s surprise withdrawal from the event.
No one has had more success at the indoor tournament in Bercy than Djokovic, who claimed a record-extending seventh title in 2023.
The Serbian beat Grigor Dimitrov to lift the title a year ago, having previously triumphed in 2009, 2013-15, 2019, and 2021.
However, the 37-year-old will not be back searching for an eighth crown in 2024, having withdrawn from the event – and seemingly ending his 2024 season.
Speaking to Eurosport, Pioline was not too disappointed in Djokovic’s withdrawal – and admitted that he understood the decision.
Pioline said: “He is the defending champion – but he is 37 years old if I am not mistaken.
“He has had a complicated year physically since he had a meniscus operation just before Wimbledon. He won the Olympic Games, it is his only title but that was the objective, so objective achieved.
“I think he has reached a stage in his career where he manages his schedule as his body asks him to manage it.”
Novak Djokovic, one of the most accomplished players in tennis history, surprised fans worldwide by withdrawing from the 2024 Paris Masters, effectively concluding his season. The news is significant not just for the tournament but also for Djokovic himself. At 37 years old, Djokovic has established an unparalleled legacy, yet he remains vigilant in managing his career with exceptional strategic foresight, something that has set him apart over the past two decades. With his body needing extra care after recent surgeries and a physically demanding season, the Serb has made the calculated decision to prioritize longevity over immediate glory.
Djokovic’s decision not to compete in the Paris Masters is particularly notable given his history of success at the tournament. With a record seven titles in Paris-Bercy, Djokovic has long dominated the indoor event, with his latest title in 2023 reaffirming his unparalleled skill. Notably, he has often finished strong here as a precursor to further success. This has led to Paris-Bercy becoming one of Djokovic’s strongest grounds, a stage where he not only thrives but also consolidates his reputation as a player with remarkable versatility and dominance.
But this year, Djokovic’s absence will undeniably shift the dynamics of the tournament. Tournament director Cedric Pioline, in an interview with Eurosport, said he understood the rationale behind Djokovic’s decision. “He is the defending champion – but he is 37 years old if I am not mistaken,” Pioline noted, adding, “He has had a complicated year physically since he had a meniscus operation just before Wimbledon. He won the Olympic Games; it is his only title but that was the objective, so objective achieved. I think he has reached a stage in his career where he manages his schedule as his body asks him to manage it.”
Djokovic’s 2024 season has indeed been one of resilience and recalibration. Facing physical challenges, including a meniscus operation, he recalibrated his goals, eventually achieving Olympic success. His approach to his calendar now involves making decisions that minimize strain while maximizing effectiveness. By listening to his body and avoiding further injury, Djokovic is safeguarding the longevity of his career, a prudent decision as he continues to set records in the game.
The choice to end his season before Paris underscores the changes Djokovic has been making in his approach to competition. He has shifted from competing in as many tournaments as possible to being selective about where and when he plays. As Pioline observed, Djokovic has entered a phase in his career that emphasizes selective participation, a tactic employed by other greats like Roger Federer. This is a far cry from the early years of his career when he would play an exhaustive number of matches, often pushing through injuries to stay on top of the rankings.
Djokovic’s decision to prioritize his body isn’t merely about his immediate physical state; it’s a broader indicator of the changing landscape in tennis. The sport is no longer just about how many tournaments one can win in a single season. With advancements in sports science, diet, and physiotherapy, players like Djokovic are able to extend their careers by focusing on strategic scheduling and quality over quantity. The Serb’s decision to step back from Paris could also set a precedent for future generations, highlighting a sustainable approach for aspiring professionals.
The decision echoes similar choices made by Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal, Djokovic’s long-time rivals. Federer, in particular, was known for his selective participation in the latter stages of his career, often skipping events on clay to extend his dominance on grass and hard courts. Nadal, too, has had to make tough choices, especially due to recurrent injuries. Djokovic is perhaps learning from his peers’ experiences, blending that wisdom with his own insights into his body’s needs and limits.
Djokovic’s absence from Paris-Bercy opens up the field for emerging stars on the ATP Tour. In recent years, the Paris Masters has been a critical proving ground for players like Jannik Sinner, Holger Rune, and Daniil Medvedev, who have all managed to make significant strides on indoor courts. With Djokovic opting out, the tournament gains an added layer of intrigue. Who will seize the opportunity in his absence?
This absence also has repercussions on the ATP rankings. Djokovic’s strategic decision to rest could see him briefly relinquish his position at the top of the rankings, a gamble he seems willing to take in exchange for a longer, healthier career. It’s also worth noting that this allows Djokovic to enter 2025 with renewed vigor, setting himself up to compete with full intensity in the tournaments that matter most to him, notably the Grand Slams.
For Djokovic, who has already cemented his status as one of the greatest in tennis history, the cost of greatness has always included both physical and mental sacrifices. His current approach reflects a desire to find balance, perhaps a realization that at this point, his legacy is secure. He has broken records, won numerous titles, and proven himself time and again. Now, his focus may have shifted to managing his career so he can continue competing at the highest level for as long as possible without risking long-term health.
While Djokovic’s decision may be disappointing for fans hoping to see him in action in Paris, it’s also a reminder of the toll that professional sports can take on an athlete’s body. His move emphasizes that even the best must sometimes step back, reassess, and realign their priorities. As Pioline pointed out, Djokovic’s accomplishments this year, particularly his Olympic gold, have fulfilled key objectives, offering him a sense of completion for the season despite his shortened schedule.
With the Paris Masters no longer part of his 2024 schedule, Djokovic’s immediate focus will likely be on recovery and preparation for the 2025 season. He will be setting his sights on the next big tournaments, especially the Grand Slams, where he continues to chase records. His approach hints at a legacy-focused mindset, prioritizing iconic victories and historical milestones over a relentless pursuit of every trophy available.
As the sport continues to evolve, Djokovic’s decision to manage his body may well shape how future generations of players approach their careers. It showcases the art of balancing ambition with self-care, an approach that could become increasingly important in an era where athletic careers are being prolonged through careful planning and strategic play.
In conclusion, Djokovic’s choice not to participate in the Paris Masters reflects both a personal and professional evolution. He is no longer just a competitor; he is a veteran with a comprehensive understanding of his body and what it needs. By stepping away, he’s not just preserving his health; he’s extending his legacy, making it clear that for Novak Djokovic, the journey isn’t over—it’s merely entering a new, thoughtfully crafted phase.