An emotional Novak Djokovic touched the clay court at Roland Garros on Friday, June 6, hinting at a potential French Open farewell after his loss to Jannik Sinner in the semi-final. Djokovic was beaten in straight sets by Sinner with a scoreline of 4-6, 5-7, 6-7 (3) after 3 hours and 16 minutes in a fiercely contested match at the Court Philippe-Chatrier.
But what caught the attention of the fans was how the Serbian reacted as he was making his way out of the court. After the exhausting encounter, Djokovic set down his kitbag and acknowledged the fans by waving to them and thanking the crowd for their support during the contest.
Sinner vs Djokovic semi-final Highlights
After that, in a heartwarming gesture, the former World No.1 bent down and touched the Parisian clay, perhaps hinting that it could have been his final game at Roland Garros. You can see the full video below:
What Djokovic said after the match
After the match, Djokovic addressed the gesture and admitted that he may not return for the French Open next year. The Serbian said if it was indeed his final appearance at Roland Garros, then it was a wonderful one.
“This could have been the last match I ever play here, I don’t know. That’s why it was a bit more emotional at the end,” he said.
“But if this was my farewell match at Roland Garros, it was a wonderful one — the atmosphere and the support from the crowd were incredible.
“Do I wish to keep playing? Yes, I do. But will I be able to return in 12 months’ time? I’m not sure. That’s all I can say for now.”
Djokovic said that his focus is now on Wimbledon and the US Open and also mentioned the posibility of returning to Australia.
If it was indeed his final appearance at Roland Garros, then Djokovic will end his time at the iconic court as a three-time French Open champion and with a record of 101-17.