The 2025 US Open main draw kicks off this weekend, and all eyes will be on the defending champions and world no. 1s, Jannik Sinner and Aryna Sabalenka.
Yet amid all the focus on rising stars, veteran Novak Djokovic remains one of the most attractive participants in the tournament. Former US Open champion Andy Roddick recently witnessed something that reinforced how dangerous the Serb remains, even at this career stage.
Why Was Andy Roddick Shocked By Novak Djokovic?
While looking at the US Open 2025 men’s draw, Roddick admired the Serb and his accomplishments this year. Speaking on his “Served with Andy Roddick” podcast, the American noted, “Novak Djokovic, I mean, he is kind of playing tennis this year, and he has made two semi-finals in Grand Slams at 38 years old. It’s unbelievable.”
The former world number one was particularly impressed by what he witnessed during Djokovic’s practice session with third seed Alexander Zverev. Despite the month-long hiatus, the Serb’s return game looked sharp as ever.
Roddick observed, “I was watching him right before we came over to this stage, and even in practice, there is never a shot that looks panicked. It’s always under control. He has not played since Wimbledon and was practicing with Zverev. I saw him break him twice in practice.”
Speaking about Djokovic’s longevity, Roddick suggested that retirement questions are nowhere in the frame. “It’s just unbelievable what he is still doing, and if any journalist asks him when he is going to retire, he should just say when I’m not one of the best players in the world anymore and save himself that question over and over again,” the American said.
For Roddick, who battled Djokovic during his own playing days, seeing this level of control from a 38-year-old was remarkable. The fact that Djokovic could break Zverev’s serve twice in practice, despite the extended break, showed his competitive edge remains intact.
Djokovic’s Quest for History at the US Open
Djokovic enters the US Open with 24 Grand Slam titles, the most in men’s tennis history. His four US Open crowns came in 2011, 2015, 2018, and 2023, making him one of the most successful players at Flushing Meadows.
The Serbian’s 2025 season has been strategically planned around the major tournaments. After skipping several events to manage his schedule, he focused his energy on Grand Slam preparation.
Should Djokovic capture his fifth US Open title, he would stand alone with 25 Grand Slam victories, extending his record as the most successful male player in tennis history. To achieve this, he is willing to make coaching changes and include his mentor, Monica Seles, in his coaching team.
Djokovic will face Learner Tien in the first-round match at Arthur Ashe Stadium, and Roddick is confident he will overcome the American and advance to the next round.