Djokovic criticizes Masters 1000 format: “They are too long for me”
Novak Djokovic withdrew from the Toronto and Cincinnati Masters 1000 events this summer.
Novak Djokovic, US Open 2025 – © Zuma / Psnewz
Roland Garros, Wimbledon, and soon the US Open, these are the last three tournaments Novak Djokovic has played on the ATP Tour. Three Grand Slams, his absolute priority, and one he has openly embraced for some time now. And between these tournaments, which are so dear to him? Not much, if anything at all.
After his semi-final loss at Wimbledon to Jannik Sinner, Novak Djokovic took a well-deserved break with his family. Although he initially withdrew from the Toronto Masters 1000, fans expected the Serb to play in Cincinnati, where he had claimed the title during his last appearance in 2023. However, the 24-time Grand Slam champion withdrew once again.
Now in New York this week to compete in the 19th US Open of his career, Novak Djokovic spoke in more detail about his schedule, particularly the Masters 1000 events, which are now played over almost twelve days, a format he considers too long.
“It’s way too long for me. My main focus is on the Grand Slams. I don’t really have any other schedule. I’d like to play more other tournaments. But at the moment, it’s almost like having twelve Grand Slams a year.”
A step back likely impossible, according to Djokovic
“I decided not to play (Toronto and Cincinnati) because I wanted to spend more time with my family, and honestly, I think I’ve earned the right and the luxury to choose, to select, and to decide where I want to go and what I want to play. To be honest, I no longer enjoy the two-week Masters 1000 events.”
Novak Djokovic also explained that, while players have criticized this format heavily lately, a return to the previous system would likely be impossible in the short term. The Serb noted that contracts have been signed for a very long duration.
“Honestly, I don’t see how that could happen. The contracts are quite solid, as far as I understand, they are 30-year contracts. Unless all the Masters agree and the ATP board responsible for the tournaments supports the idea of going back, which I highly doubt, I don’t know what the tournament organizers’ stance is.”
Novak Djokovic will start the US Open on Sunday against American Learner Tien.
