Heartbreaking Novak Djokovic comment may explain unusual 2024 season so far
Novak Djokovic got candid as he told Nick Kyrgios why he was "hurting".
Novak Djokovic made a heartbreaking admission as he appeared on Nick Kyrgios’ podcast. The world No. 1 explained why he is “hurting” while travelling on the tennis tour - a comment that seems to explain his unusual season. Djokovic has played just five tournaments and has not even made a final so far this year.
Djokovic and Kyrgios renewed their bromance as the 24-time Grand Slam champion was the latest guest on Kyrgios’ Good Trouble podcast. Although the episode was recorded at the Australian Open in January, it gave an insight into some of the struggles that Djokovic is currently facing away from the tennis court.
The 36-year-old has so far had an uncharacteristic season by his standards, severely limiting his schedule and suffering multiple surprise early exits. And Djokovic appears to be torn between continuing his career and missing his family, which could explain why he has decided to withdraw from so many tournaments.
“The little Novak, the four-year-old Novak, who started playing tennis in Kopaonik in Serbia, is still inside and still in love with the sport and is still so hungry for more. Right?” the world No. 1 told Kyrgios.
Our community members are treated to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. You can check out at any time. Read our Privacy Policy
“But at the same time, there's probably this more mature Novak, father and a husband, that is, ‘Come on, man. There are other things in life as well.’” Djokovic has two children - Stefan, nine and Tara, six - with his wife Jelena.
And he was already finding it tough to be away from them while in Australia for the first two tournaments of the season. He added: “I really miss my children as we speak now. They are back in Europe, and I haven't seen them for weeks.
“If I do well here, I will not see them for another two, three weeks, who knows? And that's hurting me more and more, leaving them.” It therefore comes as no surprise that Djokovic missed two tournaments for personal reasons this year.
Don't miss...
Halep shares how she feels about ex-coach that took the blame for doping ban [REACTION]
Rafael Nadal 'travel plans' leaked again in huge French Open hint [UPDATE]
Swiatek worried players will be stabbed on court after protesters stormed Rome [QUOTES]
When he announced his withdrawal from the Miami Open in March, the Serb tweeted: “At this stage of my career, I’m balancing my private and professional schedule.” He also withdrew from last month’s Madrid Open for “non-medical reasons”, likely trying to juggle family life with the tennis tour.
When he has competed, his results haven’t been up to his usual high standards. Djokovic started the year by suffering defeat in Australia for the first time since 2018. He lost to Alex De Minaur at the United Cup and to Jannik Sinner in the Australian Open semi-final.
He then returned to Indian Wells for his first appearance in five years but was stunned by then-world No. 123 and lucky loser Luca Nardi in his second match. Djokovic enjoyed his best Monte-Carlo Masters showing since 2015 as he reached the semi-final before losing to Casper Ruud.
But it was another out-of-sorts performance at the Italian Open, where Djokovic looked flat as he lost 6-2 6-3 to Alejandro Tabilo in his second match. He is now not expected to play until his French Open title defence.