By Tomas Ressa
Novak Djokovic faces a crucial stretch in the final months of the year. From August to December, he must defend 5300 ATP points.
For the first time since 2005, Djokovic will arrive in August without winning a title unless he triumphs at this week’s Olympic Games. After the Olympics, the Serbian have the titanic mission of defending the quantity of 5300 points because of his magnificent second half of the season in 2023.
In that period, Nole won 4 titles in a row: two Masters 1000 events (Cincinnati and Paris), the US Open and the ATP Nitto Finals. In total he accumulated 21 victories for only 2 defeats in those months, both against Jannik Sinner (Round Robin of the Finals, and the Davis Cup Final Phase). Closing in style one of the best seasons of his career.
Month by month
August and September: 3000 points
Western & Southern Open (Cincinnati):
- 2023 Result: Champion (1000 points)
US Open:
- 2023 Result: Champion (2000 points)
Ottober: 0 points
He didn’t play any tournament in that month
November: 2300 points
Paris Masters:
- 2023 Result: Winner (1000 points)
ATP Finals:
- 2023 Result: Winner (1300 points)
Analysis and Projections
Defending these points is crucial for Djokovic, as they represent a significant part of his annual total and could considerably influence his position in the ATP rankings. The fact that Djokovic won two Masters 1000 (Cincinnati and Paris) and the ATP Finals in 2023 puts him under pressure to replicate those results or at least come close to them to maintain his ranking.
Key Factors:
- Physical Condition: Djokovic’s ability to stay injury-free will be fundamental.
- Performance in Major Tournaments: Revalidating titles in Cincinnati, Paris, and the ATP Finals could be decisive.
- Competition: The performance of other top players like Carlos Alcaraz, Daniil Medvedev, and Jannik Sinner will also influence Djokovic’s ranking.
