Date: January 17, 2025
Novak Djokovic has long voiced thoughts on how tennis could evolve to better engage younger audiences. Serbia’s tennis star, aiming for a historic 25th Grand Slam title at Australian Open, sought to point out the sport may benefit from more entertainment elements, such as dancers during breaks between sets, to make matches more enjoyable and interactive.
Tennis Tradition vs. Modern Entertainment
While acknowledging the rich history and traditions of tennis, Djokovic stated that the sport has been slow to adapt to the changing preferences of the modern generation, especially their shorter attention spans. He admitted to being “hot-headed” during his Australian Open third-round win against Tomas Machac, commenting on how the intense atmosphere could be relaxed with some light-hearted entertainment.
Djokovic’s Ideas for Mid-Match Entertainment
The 25-time Grand Slam winner said that tennis can learn from other major events, such as the Super Bowl and NBA, where dancers and other performers entertain the crowd during breaks. He said that such entertainment could not only help fans stay engaged but also offer players a brief respite to recharge and refocus. Djokovic explained:
“I think we should try looking for ways to connect with the youths. I’d want to have some entertainment too. Nice dancers, there so they can provide some more breaks for me so that I could be able to calm my nerves and think about something else.” Respect for tradition but openness for change
Djokovic said he backed entertainment being brought in to some tournaments, but said he was not campaigning for such shifts at Wimbledon, which he said he held a lot of respect for given its history and grace. He said:
“With Wimbledon I wouldn’t change much. I would keep it as it is because it’s so unique, all white and strawberries and cream and everything about it is just so elegant and classy.”
However, it was proposed that the above entertainment ideas be implemented to other Grand Slam events such as US Open, given that American culture promotes entertainment during events.
Djokovic explained that changes are indeed necessary, but they should be gradual and aligned with the nature of each tournament. He still wants to hold on to the core values of tennis but is also open to ideas that will make the sport more accessible and interesting for future generations.
Djokovic continues his quest for a record 25th Grand Slam in Melbourne, where he now keeps looking to the future as a way of balancing tradition with innovative modernity.”.
