'Slams are where I feel inspired' - Novak Djokovic reveals why he's only focusing on major events

Novak Djokovic did not participate in any of the warm-up tournaments leading up to the US Open 2025.

Novak Djokovic has done what no other player in tennis history has been able to do. With 24 Grand Slam titles—the most in men’s tennis—the Serbian legend stands atop the sport. Yet, he is motivated by one final, elusive milestone: a record-extending 25th major championship.

As he prepares to kickstart his US Open 2025 campaign, Djokovic has made it clear that every decision in his schedule now revolves around that singular goal. However, arriving at the Flushing Meadows, the four-time US Open champion has skipped all warm-up tournaments. Why so?

“I decided not to play because I wanted to spend more time with my family,” Djokovic explained during his pre-tournament press conference.

Also Read: Five records Novak Djokovic can break at US Open 2025

“To be honest, I think I’ve earned the right to pick and choose where I want to play. For me now, it’s all about motivation and joy. The Slams are where I feel the most inspired.”

The cutest of interactions 🥰Emerie gets to serve lemonade to her favourite tennis player – none other than @DjokerNole… pic.twitter.com/aUODLEtkR5

— US Open Tennis (@usopen) August 22, 2025

This selective approach of the former World No.1 has been evident throughout 2025. After Roland Garros, he bypassed the entire summer swing, only appearing at Wimbledon before once again stepping away from competition for a break.

He decided to skip the Washington Open, the Canadian Open, and the Cincinnati Masters, possibly because he lacked enthusiasm for the two-week-long Masters tournaments.

“I don’t actually have any schedule other than Slams, to be honest,” he said before slightly criticizing the long format of the ATP 1000 events.

“To be quite frank with you, I don’t enjoy the two-week Masters events anymore,” the Serbian admitted. “It’s just way too long for me.”

“I’m not chasing the rankings anymore, or building up points, or defending titles. I just don’t think about it. It’s really about where I care to be, and that’s the four majors,” he added.

While Djokovic prioritizes family life, his daughter Tara celebrates her birthday on September 2, amid the Grand Slam extravaganza. And, he still reserves space for the moments that matter most to his career.

“Those are the types of things I don’t want to miss anymore,” he added. “But at the same time, Slams are where I sacrifice, because that’s where I feel the strongest drive to compete.”

The last time the Serbian legend won a Grand Slam was in 2023 at the US Open. This time, he will kick off his campaign against the 19-year-old American Learner Tien on Monday, August 25.

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