Novak Djokovic raises concerns over tennis' diminishing popularity, says 'sport is endangered'

Novak Djokovic pushes for collective action for the growth of the sport.

Novak Djokovic has gradually been getting into his usual form at Wimbledon 2024. He has dropped two sets in three matches so far. While Djokovic is getting comfortable on the courts, he spoke about the sport needing better marketing particularly at the grassroot level.

The Serbian expressed his feelings on the current situation of tennis globally. After defeating Alexei Popyrin in four sets in the third round, he expressed his opinion at the post-match press conference at Wimbledon 2024.

The world No. #3 felt that the grand slams have always been the centre of attention in the game. But the tour also needs to grow popular for tennis to grow. He felt that the nations which do not have strong budgets fail to spread it to their citizens.

Djokovic said, “we are lucky to be very historic and a very global sport. But I think one of the studies that was done by PTPA 3 or 4 years ago showed that tennis is the third or fourth most watched sport in the world along with cricket. 

Number 1 is football or soccer as you call it in the states. Second is basketball. Then it’s tennis and cricket. But tennis is number 9 or 10 on the list of all sports in terms of using its popularity, commercializing or capitalizing on that.”

The 24-time Grand Slam winner emphasized on organizations and players coming together to form a foundation to address the issues. He regarded tennis as a historical sport, but the issues have not been addressed the right way.

Also read: Novak Djokovic equals Roger Federer’s record for most second round men’s singles appearances at Wimbledon

The Serbian player compared the rise of pickleball and paddleball. These sports have been picked up due to being marketed the right way. Djokovic hoped that the situation would improve in the coming years.

The 37-year-old will next face Holger Rune in the fourth round at Wimbledon 2024. The pair will be facing each other on grass courts for the first time. Djokovic leads their head-to-head record with three wins in five matches.

Djokovic, a seven-time Wimbledon champion, has been using his influence to popularise the sport. His work with the PTPA has given support to the lower ranked players on the tour.

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