Why Novak Djokovic Isn’t Playing at the Paris Masters, Explained by Former Federer Coach Ivan Ljubicic

Novak Djokovic’s sudden withdrawal from the Paris Masters has left fans and analysts alike questioning what’s next for the 24-time Grand Slam winner. Renowned tennis coach Ivan Ljubicic, a former top-10 player and one-time coach of Roger Federer, offered his thoughts on why Djokovic made this surprising decision. According to Ljubicic, it comes down to a matter of “physical and mental readiness,” hinting that Djokovic’s priorities may be shifting as he focuses on select events in his twilight years.

### A Strategic Withdrawal: Djokovic’s Paris Masters Decision

Last Wednesday, Djokovic announced his decision to skip the Paris Masters, a tournament he has won seven times. This choice could mean the end of Djokovic’s 2024 season, although he has yet to confirm his plans for the ATP Finals in Turin, should he qualify. Currently ranked sixth in the Race to Turin, he would secure a spot among the top eight players eligible to compete in this elite season finale.

Djokovic shared his withdrawal news through an Instagram post: “Unfortunately, I won’t be playing the Paris Masters this year. I have a lot of great memories from Paris, winning seven titles, and I hope to be back with you next year. Sorry to everyone who was hoping to see me there.” With these words, Djokovic left fans speculating about his future plans, hinting that his approach to the sport is becoming more selective as he looks ahead to the 2025 season.

### Ljubicic’s Insight into Djokovic’s Priorities

Ivan Ljubicic, who coached Roger Federer during the latter stages of his career, believes that Djokovic’s focus has shifted away from maintaining his ATP ranking and competing in smaller tournaments. Instead, his eyes are set firmly on the Grand Slams, where he still demonstrates the mental resilience and physical prowess necessary to compete at the highest level. According to Ljubicic, Djokovic’s withdrawal from the Paris Masters signals a deliberate choice rather than an involuntary break.

“Novak has already achieved so much,” Ljubicic said. “He’s been in the game for years, and it’s natural to see him now reserving his energy for the tournaments that matter most to him. He doesn’t seem interested in chasing points or rankings as he did earlier in his career.”

Ljubicic’s words reflect a broader trend among tennis greats as they reach the later stages of their careers, choosing to focus on peak events where they can still make history rather than maintaining a rigorous tournament schedule. Djokovic’s withdrawal from Paris and possible absence from the ATP Finals highlight this shift, as he appears intent on conserving his energy for a fresh start in 2025.

### Djokovic’s Memorable 2024 Season and the Pursuit of New Goals

For Djokovic, 2024 was a year of great triumphs and some setbacks. After securing Olympic gold in Paris, Djokovic faced a series of grueling matches in the latter half of the year, including a hard-fought loss to World No. 1 Jannik Sinner in Shanghai. This defeat dashed Djokovic’s hopes of reaching 100 career titles this season, but his ambitions have always transcended numerical milestones. Winning Grand Slams remains his paramount goal, with the Australian Open, where he has found extraordinary success, likely his next major target.

According to Ljubicic, Djokovic’s decision to skip Paris and potentially Turin points to a calculated focus on 2025, where the Australian Open looms large. “His goal has shifted from week-to-week competitions to making a statement at the Slams,” Ljubicic explained. Djokovic’s preparations will likely involve training and rehabilitation to ensure he arrives in Melbourne in peak condition.

### Reflecting on Friendships and Rivalries: Djokovic, Ljubicic, and Federer

Interestingly, Ljubicic and Djokovic share a longstanding friendship, and their paths have intertwined in unexpected ways. Djokovic has previously said that Ljubicic “knows my game,” making it intriguing to hear the Croatian coach’s insights on his friend’s choices. Their friendship was put to the test when Ljubicic joined Federer’s coaching team, a move that Djokovic described as “weird” but respectful.

“Djokovic and I go way back,” Ljubicic said, recounting their past matchups and shared experiences. “It’s been fascinating to see him evolve, especially now as he’s decided to conserve his energy and focus on select events.”

Their camaraderie reflects the competitive yet respectful relationships that define the world of elite tennis, where rivals often turn into friends as they journey through the highs and lows of professional sports. This respect for each other’s careers has endured, even as Djokovic’s top competitors have retired or cut down on their own schedules.

### The Final Exhibition Match with Del Potro

While his absence in Paris might suggest that Djokovic is stepping back, he still has one more scheduled appearance this year: an exhibition match with Argentine tennis star Juan Martin del Potro. Set for December 1 in Buenos Aires, this event will serve as Del Potro’s farewell match, an occasion of immense significance for South American tennis fans and Djokovic himself.

The exhibition will be an opportunity for Djokovic to compete without the intensity of a ranking-point tournament, allowing him to engage with fans and show his respect for Del Potro’s career. “It’s a celebration, a moment of friendship and mutual respect,” said Ljubicic, adding that Djokovic’s presence in Buenos Aires demonstrates his genuine love for the sport and its global community.

### What Lies Ahead for Djokovic?

With his Paris Masters withdrawal, Djokovic’s immediate future remains uncertain, but fans can rest assured that the Serbian legend has not hung up his racket just yet. His focus on Grand Slams, especially the Australian Open, signals his commitment to securing a legacy that few athletes have achieved. While the ATP Tour’s day-to-day grind may no longer appeal to him, Djokovic’s presence at major tournaments will continue to electrify fans and test the new generation of players, including stars like Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner.

Ljubicic hinted at a possible retirement date but admitted that, like many of Djokovic’s fans, he remains hopeful that the tennis star will stick around for as long as possible. “I don’t know how much longer he’ll play, and I don’t think he knows it either,” Ljubicic shared. “But as long as he’s in the game, he’ll be a force to be reckoned with.”

### Djokovic’s Lasting Legacy

Even as he contemplates the timing of his retirement, Djokovic’s influence on the sport is undeniable. His relentless pursuit of excellence has redefined what it means to be a champion, inspiring younger players to push their limits. As he potentially scales back on ATP events, Djokovic’s focus on Grand Slams underscores his commitment to creating a lasting legacy rather than simply chasing records.

Djokovic’s achievements serve as a reminder that age is just a number, and that with the right mindset, athletes can perform at their best well into their thirties and beyond. His selective schedule could become a model for future players, illustrating the importance of pacing oneself to sustain a long, successful career.

### The Road to 2025 and Beyond

For Djokovic, the Paris Masters withdrawal and the uncertainty surrounding the ATP Finals may signal the end of an era—an era marked by an intense focus on rankings and tournament counts. Instead, Djokovic is now looking to sustain his peak form for as long as possible, setting his sights on a few select tournaments that matter most to him. This shift in focus offers a glimpse into the future of tennis, where longevity and legacy take precedence over accumulation of titles.

As Djokovic gears up for 2025, his fans, fellow players, and analysts will be watching closely. The tennis world is undoubtedly curious to see if this calculated approach will allow Djokovic to remain a dominant figure, and whether the Grand Slam stage will continue to be his playground for years to come.