"This has been one of my worst-performing seasons" - Novak Djokovic makes surprise confession about 2024 results as ATP title drought continues

Novak Djokovic’s hunt for a first Tour-level title victory this season continues as he lost the Shanghai Masters final to Jannik Sinner. The Serb, a four-time former champion, went down 7-6(5), 6-3.

Speaking to the media during his post-match press conference, Djokovic dubbed his 2024 season among the “worst-performing seasons in terms of results”. He, however, was quick to point out that there was bound to come a point where he would not be winning as many titles as he is used to.

Djokovic said,

"Well, I mean, comparing to most of my seasons throughout my career this has been one of the worst-performing seasons in terms of results. But, you know, it was going to come at some point where, you know, I wouldn't win slams and maintain that highest level for so many years in a row."

Djokovic did achieve a major career goal in 2024, winning the singles gold medal at the Paris Olympics. He said it was his “main goal” for the year, before adding that he was learning to accept the results as they come.

"And that's okay, I'm happy with my gold medal from Olympics. That was the main goal for this year. And, you know, of course I wish that I could have gotten at least a Grand Slam title or won big title, but it's fine, you know, it is what it is."

"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, so I'll just, yeah, see what next challenges bring to me."

Notably, Djokovic has reached two finals this season, including at Wimbledon, but has been unable to capture a title. The stat stands in stark contrast with his 2023 season when he had lifted seven trophies.

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"He deserved to win" - Novak Djokovic praises Jannik Sinner after Shanghai Masters loss

Novak Djokovic at the Shanghai Masters. (Source: Getty)

Novak Djokovic reflected on his performance in the Shanghai Masters final against Jannik Sinner, saying while he did not feel 100% fresh, he tried to give his best.

The Serb heaped praise on his opponent, saying Sinner deserved to win as he was the better player at the crucial junctures.

"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. He deserved to win, he was just too strong in important moments."

Djokovic had been in solid form all week, beating Taylor Fritz, Roman Safiullin, Jakub Mensik, and Flavio Cobolli en route to the final. He put up a great fight in the opening set against Sinner, not dropping serve even once and only losing the set in the tiebreaker. However, the Italian stepped up his game to take the match in straight sets.