Novak Djokovic is known for his meticulous planning and unparalleled dominance, but a fellow tennis star is questioning his latest move. As the prestigious 2025 Nitto ATP Finals approach, recently retired French veteran Nicolas Mahut believes Djokovic’s decision to play a tournament the week before is a major strategic error.
The Serbian legend is currently in action at the 2025 Hellenic Championship, raising questions about whether he is risking burnout at just the right time.
Why Did Nicolas Mahut Raise Concerns About Novak Djokovic’s Schedule?
Nicolas Mahut, who retired in October 2025 with an impressive career that included four singles and 37 doubles ATP titles, recently voiced his concerns about Novak Djokovic’s demanding late-season schedule. His comments came as Djokovic defeated Alejandro Tabilo and Nuno Borges to advance in the Hellenic Championship. This followed a strong run where the 100-time singles champion reached the semifinals at both the US Open and Shanghai Masters.
The tournament in question is the indoor hard-court ATP 250 Hellenic Championship in Athens, Greece, which holds a personal connection for Djokovic. The event, formerly held in Belgrade, Serbia, was relocated to Athens and is organized by the Djokovic family, with his brother, Djordje, serving as the tournament director. This move also coincided with Djokovic relocating his own family to Greece from their native Serbia.
The scheduling conflict is clear. The Hellenic Championship runs from Nov. 2 to 8, 2025, while the Nitto ATP Finals are set to begin immediately after, running from Nov. 9 to 16, 2025. If Djokovic makes the final in Athens, he would have to travel to Turin, Italy, for the ATP Finals with virtually no rest before the prestigious season-ending championship begins.
Mahut mentioned his confusion directly, stating, “I don’t understand this scheduling of the Athens tournament, even if it’s his family organising it. Logically, he plays Shanghai, prepares indoors, and then plays the Rolex Paris Masters. But Athens is just the week before the Masters (ATP Finals).”
He continued, explaining the physical toll. “He travels, and if he reaches the final, it adds matches to his schedule every day because the tournament finishes the day before the Masters starts. For me, considering his plan to play the Masters, this scheduling isn’t very coherent.”
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However, betting against Djokovic has rarely been a winning strategy. Throughout his decorated career, he has made a record 18 ATP Finals appearances and has won seven men’s singles titles. The 38-year-old has also been firm when asked about his future. When questioned about retirement, he once replied, “Have I ever considered retiring? It’s crossed my mind, more than once, that’s for sure. However, I refuse to talk about it. I think I have earned the right to play as much as I want and whenever I want.”
As for the veteran offering the advice, Mahut bid adieu to his own notable career in October 2025 at the age of 43. The five-time Grand Slam doubles champion also secured two ATP Finals titles in the doubles category, giving him a unique perspective on what it takes to win the year-end event.
