"I Don't Know": Novak Djokovic Raises Retirement Questions After French Open Exit

Novak Djokovic refused to guarantee he would return to Roland Garros after suffering one of the most painful defeats of his recent career.

The 24-time Grand Slam champion appeared on course for the French Open fourth round after taking a two-set lead against Brazilian rising star Joao Fonseca. Instead, the 39-year-old watched his title hopes unravel as Fonseca produced a stunning comeback to win 4-6, 4-6, 6-3, 7-5, 7-5.

With Carlos Alcaraz absent through injury and world No. 1 Jannik Sinner already eliminated, many viewed the French Open as Djokovic's best opportunity in recent years to add a record-extending 25th Grand Slam title.

Instead, his campaign ended before the second week.

And when asked whether he would return to Roland Garros next year, Djokovic offered a response that immediately sparked questions about his future.

"I don't know."

Novak Djokovic avoids making long-term commitments

The Serbian's answer was brief but significant.

At 39, Djokovic remains one of the sport's elite competitors, but questions surrounding retirement have grown louder with every passing season.

The French Open defeat only intensified that discussion.

Unlike previous years, Djokovic arrived in Paris with minimal clay-court preparation, having played just one match on the surface before the tournament. He was also recovering from an injury that had disrupted much of his season.

Despite the disappointing result, Djokovic insisted he was encouraged by his level throughout the fortnight.

Novak Djokovic pleased despite early exit

Reflecting on his performance, Djokovic pointed to the difficult circumstances surrounding his preparation.

"Considering I was injured for three months and trying to come back and then, you know, going pretty much straight into Grand Slam on this surface that is very demanding and, for me, takes more time to get used to, to kind of find my groove."

"You know, taking everything in consideration and all the circumstances, I think the level was really good. I mean, I was happy with my level."

For long periods against Fonseca, that assessment appeared justified.

Djokovic controlled much of the match early on before the 19-year-old Brazilian gradually turned the contest around, producing one of the biggest victories of his career.

Wimbledon now becomes Djokovic's primary target

While Roland Garros has traditionally been one of Djokovic's most successful tournaments, the grass-court season may offer a more realistic opportunity for another major title.

The Serbian has consistently remained competitive at Wimbledon, where his game continues to suit the faster conditions despite advancing age.

With questions surrounding his long-term future still unanswered, attention will now shift to whether Wimbledon can provide another chance to chase Grand Slam title No. 25.

For now, however, Djokovic remains unwilling to make any promises about returning to Paris.

Swiatek reveals Nadal helped shape coaching decision

Elsewhere at Roland Garros, Iga Swiatek disclosed that Rafael Nadal played an important role in her recent coaching changes.

The five-time Grand Slam champion parted ways with Wim Fissette earlier this season before appointing Francisco Roig, who spent 17 years working alongside Nadal.

Speaking after reaching the French Open fourth round, Swiatek revealed she sought advice directly from the Spanish legend before making the decision.

"I talked to Rafael and he gave me some advice about different systems of coaching."

The Pole admitted she was considering multiple coaching structures and wanted insight into how Nadal managed larger coaching teams throughout his career.

Swiatek also asked specifically about Roig.

"And also we spoke a little bit about Francisco Roig and, you know, had only positive things to speak about Roig about the coaching style."

"From what he said, it was like exactly what I felt like I need."

After a difficult start to 2026, Swiatek appears to be finding momentum under her new coach, reaching the Rome semi-finals before carrying that form into Roland Garros as she continues her pursuit of a fifth French Open title.