14 hours ago 3

Novak Djokovic drops major retirement suggestion after French Open defeat

Novak Djokovic said his French Open semi-final defeat to World No 1 Jannik Sinner could have been his final match at Roland Garros as he sparked suggestions that he is nearing retirement.

The 38-year-old was denied in his bid to a win a record-breaking 25th grand slam singles title as Sinner held on to win in straight-sets.

Djokovic took his time leaving the court, waving to the crowd and touching the clay, and said he felt “gratitude” for the support he received during the loss.

The Serbian said he wants to play this season’s Wimbledon and US Open but could not guarantee that he would continue playing into the 2026 season.

“This could have been the last match ever I played here, so I don't know,” Djokovic said. “ That's why I was a bit more emotional even in the end.

“But if this was the farewell match of the Roland Garros for me in my career, it was a wonderful one in terms of the atmosphere and what I got from the crowd.

“I don't know really what tomorrow brings in a way at this point in my career. You know, I going to ‘keep on keeping on’.

“Twelve months at this point in my career is quite a long time. Do I wish to play more? Yes, I do. But will I be able to play in 12 months' time here again? I don't know.