Tennis

Novak Djokovic Gives Honest Assessment of His 2024 Season After Shanghai Masters Final Loss To Jannik Sinner

James Lloyd Sports Editor

Published5 hours ago on October 13, 2024

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Novak Djokovic has given a brutally honest assessment of his 2024 season following his defeat to Jannik Sinner in the Shanghai Masters final.

Djokovic Gives Credit To Sinner

Djokovic admitted that while he played well throughout the Shanghai Masters, Sinner’s superior performance on the big points ultimately decided the match.

The 24-time Grand Slam champion, who was beaten 7-6(4), 6-3 by two-time major winner Sinner, acknowledged that he felt less than 100% fresh going into the final.

However, he expressed satisfaction with his level of play and his ability to compete with the world’s best.

“I think there’s quite a few positives that I can take,” Djokovic said in his press conference. “First of all, I think the level of my tennis was really good this tournament. … I did my best tonight.

“Under the circumstances, you know, I felt maybe not a hundred percent fresh, but at the same time, big credit to Jannik for playing the big points better than me, and that’s what made the difference.”

Tough to take the L at a tournament so close to my heart but wasn’t meant to be today. Bravo @janniksin & team for today’s win & incredible year💪. To people of Shanghai, thank you for support, passion & kindness 🙏🏼❤️. It’s been very special to be back here. See you soon 🇨🇳 谢谢 pic.twitter.com/qn2jcJqpI4

— Novak Djokovic (@DjokerNole) October 13, 2024

Djokovic Remains Optimistic Despite Disappointing Season

Despite the defeat, Djokovic remains optimistic about his prospects for the future. “Hopefully I can maintain that level in the upcoming months and also for the future,” he said.

The Serbian star also admitted that 2024 has been one of his worst seasons in terms of results.

However, he emphasised the importance of his gold medal win at the Paris Olympics and expressed his gratitude for his career achievements.

“It’s a kind of a season that you just have to accept, embrace, and I’m more than happy with what I have achieved throughout my career,” Djokovic said.