The new 'Djokovic' era, according to Roddick: "Rankings no longer matter to him"

Streaming ATP Basel MD live tennis

🎾 Bhambri/Olivetti vs Murray/Peers

* You can watch and bet on this match live here..

The withdrawal of Novak Djokovic from the latest Paris Masters 1000 is being widely discussed due to the implications of this decision. It appears that the former world number 1 does not prioritize qualifying for the ATP Finals, even though he technically has a chance to qualify without participating in the Paris event (currently sixth in the Race to Turin). Djokovic himself addressed this on his social media, stating: "Unfortunately, I will not be playing in Paris this year. I apologize to all who were looking forward to watching me play there. I wish all the players, sponsors, organizers, and fans a great tournament. I have plenty of fond memories winning seven titles and look forward to being back with you next year".

This is how the Serbian player addressed all those who hoped to see him defend the title he won last year, a title followed by his victory at the ATP Finals. However, this 2024 is different, a year in which he hasn't won any Grand Slam or Masters 1000 titles. Nonetheless, he achieved his primary goal, the Olympic gold. It seems Djokovic has taken care of business, and Andy Roddick predicts he won't participate in the Masters tournament: ""Novak said he won't play in Turin, he has no interest in playing in Turin", as stated by the American on his podcast "Served with Andy Roddick".

If Djokovic decides not to compete in the ATP Finals, it could be good news for Tommy Paul, for example. This would mean considering the top 9 players of the year, giving the American a chance to qualify. However, Roddick doesn't wish for his compatriot to relax, assuming Djokovic's absence, as anything can happen: "Now, he could change his mind. I'm not great at math, but if someone ahead of you doesn't play, that means you're in ninth place". Roddick wasn't surprised by Djokovic's Paris withdrawal, as the Serbian had already hinted at a more selective tournament schedule, stating: "It makes sense (his absence from Paris). Novak has said it in many ways, and we don't want this to take the spotlight away from Tommy Paul, but Novak will choose where he plays now".

This marks the new phase in Djokovic's career

With this decision, Djokovic also reveals that his ambition to reclaim the world number 1 spot is no longer his top priority. Following his statement post-US Open that rankings are not his focus, his recent actions endorse the idea that his career has entered a new phase. "He will try to juggle the calendar, ensuring enough matches before the Grand Slams. But from what I understand from Djokovic's words, he no longer cares about the rankings. He knows what he has achieved, and he cannot hold on to the number 1 spot forever. He has been there the most weeks of anyone. This is how the next phase of his career will unfold, choosing where he plays. He doesn't care about Paris; he won't play in Turin".

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, La nueva era "Djokovic", según Roddick: "Ya no le importan los rankings"