“We’ll see if I play Turin or not. I’m not sure yet,” remarked Novak Djokovic last month when quizzed about his participation in the 2025 ATP Finals. Perhaps the entire tennis world has had this very question in mind for a while. And just when the uncertainty was at its peak, the Italian Tennis Federation president made a confident claim, asserting that the Serbian star would indeed participate. However, it seems the 38-year-old isn’t interested in letting his words be toyed with, as Djokovic has now issued a succinct denial in response to the ATP Finals insider’s confirmation.

On Tuesday, the 24X Grand Slam winner marked an emotional return to Greece and kicked off with his Hellenic Championship, having successfully defeated Chile’s Alejandro Tabilo 7-6(3), 6-1 to progress through the round of 16. Interestingly, after the match, the end of the presser saw journalist Vicky Georgatou ask the Serb international to comment on the ATP Final confirmations made by the President Binaghi.

In response, Novak Djokovic said, “I don’t know where he (the President, ed.) got this information from, certainly not from me and not from my team!” as compiled by UbiTennis. Further giving a bold reply regarding the real factor behind his decision on whether he will play or not, he added, “I’ll decide at the end of the tournament!” vocally contradicting the Italian chief’s confident claim.

Notably, it was just last week that renowned tennis journalist Jose Morgado had also confirmed the remarks of the Italian Tennis Federation president, claiming that Djokovic will participate in the ATP Finals. This came even though it was just last month, the veteran tennis star himself confirmed that after Shanghai, any possible tournament that would see him play is the one in Athens.

And rightly so, as he successfully opened up with his Hellenic Championship journey. Not to mention, quite a special one, considering the city of Greece is hosting the ATP 250 event after almost three decades, having done so back in 1994. The tournament’s return to Athens also marks Greece’s comeback to the top tier of professional tennis, and Djokovic’s presence only made it more special than ever.

With the event having begun on the first day of this month, it is set to run until November 8. Certainly, the 13X No. 1-ranked player would be looking to remain till the end of the very tournament that is run by the Djokovic family, who took over the license from the old Belgrade Open. While it’s only natural to hope he wins, it would pose certain problems for The Serbinator!

Novak Djokovic shall look out for himself if he wishes to play the ATP Finals!

Potentially reaching the Athens finals on Saturday would also mean that Novak Djokovic will barely have any time to rest before his first ATP Finals group-stage match in Turin on Monday. As if this tight turnaround wasn’t enough to make his participation in the tournament questionable, he might even end up missing the tournament’s official player presentation, which, mind you, holds its own significance in the ATP calendar.

The doubts grow further considering Djokovic recently withdrew mid-match from the Six Kings Slam exhibition due to ongoing physical issues. That explains why ex-player John Isner believes the Serbian won’t take part in the event. “I don’t think he’s playing, and I hope I’m wrong. Everyone would love to see him in Turin. The fact that he’s already qualified, playing the schedule that he’s played this year, is just completely absurd. At 38 years old, it needs mentioning again.”

Not to remind, he didn’t participate last year as well. Then again, it would be interesting to see whether Novak will be making a last-minute decision, especially if his body doesn’t feel ready. On the contrary, some believe Djokovic is merely being cautious, even though his brother, Djordje Djokovic, assured that Novak is “feeling good” and working hard to recover.

So whether Novak Djokovic participates in the ATP finals or not is something that depends on the outcome of Athens. Rest, the bold step was taken to deny any kind of unnecessary talking. Either way, share your views in the comments.