Djokovic Says Family Priorities Now Shape His Tennis Schedule Ahead of Cincinnati

Novak Djokovic, the 24-time Grand Slam winner, discussed how his priorities have evolved beyond tennis during a pre-tournament press conference at the Cincinnati Open. Following a short stay in the United States for promotional duties and World Cup games, he returned to Montenegro to enjoy a relaxed vacation with his wife Jelena and their children. Djokovic explained that family commitments now dictate much of his schedule, marking a departure from the single-focused approach of his earlier career.

He emphasized the need to juggle his roles as a professional athlete, husband, father, son and brother, acknowledging the sacrifices his relatives have made. Entering the event as the No. 3 seed, he will face Thiago Agustín Tirante in the second round after a first-round bye, aiming to build momentum for the upcoming US Open.