Novak Djokovic Needs Luck to Secure Another Grand Slam, Claims Former WTA Star

Novak Djokovic, widely regarded as one of the greatest players in tennis history, might require “a bit of luck” to add another Grand Slam title to his record-breaking collection, according to former WTA star Andrea Petkovic.

Petkovic believes Djokovic’s path to further glory hinges on conserving energy in the early rounds of major tournaments, ensuring he can bring his full strength to potential clashes with rising stars like Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner.

A Stellar 2023 but Challenges Ahead

Djokovic’s most recent Grand Slam victory, his 24th, came at the 2023 US Open, where he defeated Daniil Medvedev in a commanding final. The year 2023 was remarkable for Djokovic, featuring triumphs at the Australian Open, French Open, and a dramatic five-set loss to Alcaraz in the Wimbledon final.

However, 2024 has proven to be a more challenging year for the Serbian legend. While he claimed the Olympic gold medal in Paris by defeating Alcaraz in a thrilling final, this was his only major title of the season.

In the Grand Slam circuit of 2024, Djokovic reached the semifinals of the Australian Open and the quarterfinals at Roland Garros before withdrawing due to injury. He was the runner-up at Wimbledon but suffered an unexpected third-round exit at the US Open.

Petkovic: Djokovic Needs a Favorable Draw

On the latest episode of the Rennae Stubbs Tennis Podcast, Andrea Petkovic offered her perspective on Djokovic’s chances of extending his Grand Slam tally.

“To secure another title, which I believe he absolutely can, Novak Djokovic will need a bit of luck. He must avoid energy-draining matches in the first week. A favorable draw that allows him to breeze through the early rounds would be ideal,” Petkovic explained.

The former world No. 9 emphasized that Djokovic’s ability to manage his energy levels will be crucial:“He’ll be in peak physical condition, fully prepared from his offseason training. With Andy Murray now in his box, all the negative energy will be locked there—Andy’s such a character!” she joked.

“Djokovic just needs to conserve his strength during the first four rounds so that when he faces the likes of Alcaraz or Sinner, he’s operating at full power,” Petkovic added.

Tough Competition Awaits in 2025

Currently ranked world No. 7, Djokovic is slated to be the seventh seed at the 2025 Australian Open, barring any withdrawals from higher-ranked players. This seeding position increases the likelihood of facing one of the top four ATP players—Jannik Sinner, Alexander Zverev, Carlos Alcaraz, or Taylor Fritz—as early as the quarterfinal stage.

The potential for high-stakes clashes with these formidable competitors underscores the challenge Djokovic faces in maintaining his dominance in a field teeming with young talent.

Can Djokovic Defy the Odds Once More?

As Djokovic enters the 2025 season, the tennis world is watching to see if the 37-year-old icon can overcome age, fierce competition, and the demands of the Grand Slam circuit to further solidify his legendary status.

While Petkovic’s comments highlight the obstacles ahead, they also affirm Djokovic’s extraordinary resilience and adaptability. With meticulous preparation, strategic planning, and perhaps a stroke of luck, Novak Djokovic remains a contender for more Grand Slam titles as he continues to chase tennis immortality.