"It is bad...but Novak Djokovic has the right" - Carlos Alcaraz & Taylor Fritz get honest about Serb's controversial ATP Finals decision

Novak Djokovic is yet to announce his final decision about his participation in the 2025 ATP Finals at Turin. Amid this, Carlos Alcaraz and Taylor Fritz have shared their honest opinions about the Serb's decision.

Djokovic is currently competing at the Hellenic Championship. His latest appearance on the court was in the semi-final round against Yannick Hanfmann. The Serb dominated the round and advanced to the finals, registering a 6-3, 6-4 win against his opponent. He is now scheduled to compete against Lorenzo Musetti in the finals on November 8.

The Serb has chosen to share his decision regarding his appearance at the ATP Finals after the completion of his tournament in Athens. Alcaraz and Fritz were asked about their opinions on the Serb's decision in the pre-tournament press conference. (8:33 onwards)

"Well, I mean I think Yeah, obviously when you're on the fence, not sure if everyone's not sure if you're going to play. Yes, there's inconveniences, but he's earned that right in my opinion for he's qualified. It's his decision if he wants to play or not play. And if he wants to wait on it and see how he feels, that's like I said, it does cause some inconveniences, but he's earned it. He's earned that right in my opinion," said Taylor Fritz.

Echoing Fritz's thoughts, Alcaraz said:

"Well, no, I mean it's obviously it is a bad situations for everyone, but, as Taylor said, he has the right to do it. He has played this tournament many years. He has won this tournament many years. Obviously, for the promoter for everything is not the the right situations, but, it is his decision and we had to go with it and and accept it," said Carlos Alcaraz.

---

Novak Djokovic shuts down the speculations about his retirement

Novak Djokovic addressed the rumors surrounding his retirement during the press conference after the second-round victory at the Hellenic Championship and said,

"Yes, I’ve thought about it more than once, that’s for sure. But I refuse to talk about it. I simply want to enjoy moments like today on the court. Like Stan Wawrinka, I say: ‘Leave me alone. Let me play and have fun.’ There is no countdown. Of course, the idea has crossed my mind, but I play at my own pace, when I want to, not when others think I should stop,"

Novak Djokovic has only won one title this year at the Geneva Open against Hubert Hurkacz. He fell short of advancing to any final despite reaching the semifinals at all four majors.

Edited by Tushhita Barua