Patrick Mouratoglou believes Novak Djokovic's career will end in the next two years as Serena Williams' former long-time coach doesn't see the Serb playing to 41 like Roger Federer.
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The record 24-time Grand Slam champion, who will be turning 38 in May, hasn't won any Tour-level titles since the 2023 ATP Finals. However, he shut down retirement rumors on several occasions throughout 2024.
Since Djokovic is only 7-4 in 2025 and has already had three surprising defeats (Reilly Opelka, Brisbane - Matteo Berrettini, Doha - Botic van de Zandschulp, Indian Wells), the 37-year-old's critics have been loud recently and using his recent defeats as an argument for their claims that it is time for the world No. 7 to walk away from pro tennis.
In 2023 September, Federer ended his astonishing tennis career, just one month after turning 41. However, it should be noted that the Swiss basically didn't play any tournaments in what counted as the two years of his pro career.
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In a quick Q&A interview with Tennis Channel, Mouratoglou was asked if Djokovic would stop his career later than Federer.
"False... Novak will end his career earlier than 41 years old, I think, but it all depends on his motivation. I don't feel his motivation is going to last four more years," Naomi Osaka's current coach explained.
Djokovic made a candid admission after an early Indian Wells exit
After losing to Berrettini in his Doha opener, the former world No. 1 also got bounced in his opening match in Indian Wells after van de Zandschulp handed him a 6-2 3-6 6-1 defeat.
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While the 37-year-old didn't make any direct retirement comments after the loss, he admitted that he has experienced some struggles and that it is not getting any easier for him to stay competitive.
You know, things are different obviously for me the last couple of years. Ive been struggling to play on the desired level. Every now and then, I have a couple good tournaments, but, you know, mostly its really a challenge. Its a struggle for me," Djokovic said.
So it is what it is. You know, I guess nothing can prepare you for that moment, in a sense. You have to experience it and try to deal with it in the best possible way.
