Novak Djokovic has endured a gruelling start to his China Open campaign, but remains unbeaten for now.
This marked the first time he had returned to Beijing since 2015, risking his perfect record of having won the event in all of his seven appearances.
Itās never nice to see this legendary figure struggle, but perhaps even more impressive to see him somehow keep winning.
However, it does feel like eventually, these kinds of performances cannot keep scoring victories.
That is why Novak Djokovic, if he truly wants to remain competitive and present at the apex of the ATP Tour, might want to think twice before doubling down on his goal for the end of the season.Ā
Novak Djokovic reveals his goal to qualify for the ATP Finals this year
Speaking after his battling comeback victory over Yunchaokete Bu, Djokovic was asked what his plans for the rest of the year were.
His response might have surprised some, as he revealed: āI donāt have that super clear right now.
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āAt the moment, Iām also not really qualified yet for the race, for Turin. I mean, this year I would like to play if I qualify. Iām planning also to play Paris, Bercy. Shanghai, I still donāt know. I need to see how I feel here, and then Iāll decide.ā
Itās astounding that he even has the capability of qualifying, given his age; it might not be a wisest decision, though.
Why Novak Djokovic should not push himself to play the ATP Finals
Whilst the Serbian likely views the ATP Finals as the last big event he might be able to win, it perhaps isnāt the best decision for him, especially considering his current condition.
After all, Djokovic recently revealed heās been dealing with a health issue that has persisted since before the Cincinnati Open, where he suffered a shock first-round loss.
If this mystery problem persists, which it seems set to, perhaps pushing himself in the next few months might not be the smartest move, especially given his age.
Time catches up with everyone, and unfortunately for him, it seems to have crept up quickly.
2027 will almost certainly represent his last year where he can compete at the Grand Slams, and even then, it might be a stretch.
If he were to take it easy between now and the end of the year, Djokovic could return for the new campaign fully rested and ready to tackle the Australian Open with all of his might. After all, once the season starts and his body gets put under the usual stress of the tennis tour, his chances will surely diminish.
