Novak Djokovic raises concerns over tennis’ future amid pickleball rise

Djokovic highlighted the appeal of pickleball, noting its lower infrastructure costs compared to tennis courts.

Following his Centre Court victory at Wimbledon 2024, tennis star Novak Djokovic voiced apprehensions about the future of tennis, citing the growing popularity of pickleball as a potential threat to the sport.

In a post-match press conference on Saturday, July 6, Djokovic, 37, expressed his concerns to reporters, stating, "Tennis is endangered. If we don’t do something about it, globally or collectively, pickleball in the States — they’re gonna convert all the tennis clubs into paddle and pickleball."

Djokovic highlighted the economic appeal of pickleball, noting its lower infrastructure costs compared to tennis courts. "You can build three paddle courts on one tennis court," he explained, emphasizing the financial incentive for club owners to opt for pickleball facilities.

While acknowledging tennis' historic and global significance, Djokovic called for improvements in marketing and audience engagement, drawing comparisons to the success of Formula 1 in expanding its global footprint. "I think we need to do a better job on our respective tours," he asserted, urging a united effort within the tennis community to enhance the sport’s appeal and sustainability.

The Serbian athlete, currently ranked world No. 2 in men’s singles, stressed the need for collective action to address longstanding challenges facing tennis. "There are quite a bit of things for us to collectively look at and try to improve," Djokovic remarked, underscoring the fragmented nature of tennis administration and the potential for growth.

Djokovic’s remarks come amidst his campaign at Wimbledon, where he aims for an eighth title that would equal Roger Federer’s record. With 24 Grand Slam men’s singles titles to his name, Djokovic remains a formidable figure in tennis, having first made his mark in 2008 by breaking the dominance of Rafael Nadal and Federer.

As discussions continue on the future direction of tennis, Djokovic’s advocacy for strategic reforms underscores the sport’s ongoing evolution and challenges in adapting to changing recreational preferences globally.