Jannik Sinner makes feelings clear on Novak Djokovic dropping major retirement hint after French Open heartbreak

Jannik Sinner defeated Novak Djokovic in the semifinals of the 2025 French Open. In an interaction with the media after the match, Sinner became emotional when he learned that Djokovic had hinted at it as his French Open farewell and hoped "it was not the case."

Djokovic bowed out of the semifinal 4-6, 5-7, 6-7(3) against the World No. 1. However, the crowd was at their feet as Court Philippe-Chatrier resounded with applause for the 24-time Grand Slam champion. Djokovic also took in the moment as he put his bags down to wave back and acknowledge the crowd before walking out of the stadium.

In a post-match press conference, Novak Djokovic discussed the possibility of the match being his last outing at Roland Garros. Sinner, who came right after the Serb for his own press conference, learned about Djokovic's thoughts through the media.

The three-time Grand Slam champion reacted by saying [at 8:25]:

“First of all, we hope that that’s not the case. I feel like tennis needs him... Having someone different than the younger guys.. my point of view.. it’s so nice to see him in the locker room and having this energy of everything."

He expressed his admiration for the former World No.1 and hoped that the latter would continue to be an active player on the circuit.

"I saw him practicing a couple of days ago. He’s very precise in everything he does. He’s a true role model for all of us. If that’s the case, I’m happy to be part of this. Because it’s a part of history also. Also for me, it’s nice to be part of this. Let’s hope it’s not the case. He said maybe, so you never know.”

Jannik Sinner will next face Carlos Alcaraz in the final of the 2025 French Open on Sunday, June 8.

Jannik Sinner overcomes Novak Djokovic to set up French Open 2025 final against Carlos Alcaraz

Jannik Sinner at the 2025 French Open. Image: Getty

After winning against Novak Djokovic in the semifinals, Jannik Sinner will clash with Carlos Alcaraz in a bid for the 2025 French Open title. This will be the first time the two players will face each other in a Grand Slam final.

Jannik Sinner has not dropped a single set en route to the final. He dispatched Richard Gasquet and Jiri Lehecka in the first and second rounds, respectively. He later sailed past Andrey Rublev, 6-1, 6-3, 6-4 in the fourth round and Alexander Bublik, 6-1, 7-5, 6-0 in the quarterfinals. He passed his toughest test in the semifinal against Novak Djokovic 6-4, 7-5, 7-6 to reach his maiden French Open final.

The 4-time Grand Slam champion may not have had a perfect start like Sinner. After a straight-set victory over Giulio Zeppieri in the first round, he dropped a set against Fabio Marozsan, Damir Dzumhur, and Ben Shelton in the second, third, and fourth rounds, respectively. However, he entered the semifinal against Lorenzo Musetti after an emphatic 6-0, 6-1, 6-4 victory over Tommy Paul in the quarterfinals. He will enter the final after a walkover at 4-6, 7-6, 6-0, 2-0 in the semifinals.

The head-to-head between the two players stands at 7-4 with Carlos Alcaraz in the lead.