Novak Djokovic on Pickleball and Padel: Novak Djokovic shared his thoughts on the rise of padel and pickleball while competing at the Miami Open. The Serbian star, aiming for his 41st Masters 1000 title and 100th ATP title, believes that tennis clubs will evolve into multi-racket sports venues.
Djokovic on Padel and Pickleball’s Growth
Following his dominant 6-0, 7-6(1) win over Rinky Hijikata, Djokovic addressed the growing popularity of these racket sports. He suggested that the future may see more integrated racket clubs rather than traditional tennis-only facilities.
“I believe that in the future, at least recreationally, tennis clubs will turn into racket clubs, honestly. Seeing the growing popularity of pickleball in this country, and especially paddle tennis globally… it’s huge, and I think, for example, paddle tennis is a great sport for recreational players who may have never held a racket before. It’s easier to teach and play than tennis, and it’s fun, it’s a social activity. I think the future of clubs is a hybrid of all these sports. At a professional and competitive level, I’m not sure.
I think seeing the future of these sports, also on a professional level, will be exciting. We have to see if people are interested in watching the tournaments or not, but paddle tennis is growing very rapidly,” (Novak Djokovic).
The influence of these sports is already visible at major venues. The Paris Padel Major, one of the biggest padel tournaments, takes place annually at Roland Garros’ Philippe Chatrier stadium. Djokovic acknowledged the importance of tennis but also entertained the idea of a multi-racket sports competition.
“Obviously, I believe tennis should remain the king or queen of racket sports, it’s the one that attracts more people and we have great tournaments, but it’s interesting. It could be fun to have a kind of mixed racket sports competition, where we can all try different sports and see how we do. Also, I saw, like I believe everyone did, that doctor saying that people who play racket sports live the most. So, yes, we definitely need to play racket sports (smiles),”(Novak Djokovic).
At Wimbledon last year, Djokovic addressed concerns that padel and pickleball could challenge tennis’ dominance, noting that tennis remains financially demanding for many players.
Djokovic Eyes 100th ATP Title in Miami
Djokovic is just one title away from a major career milestone—winning his 100th singles title. If successful, he will join Jimmy Connors (109 titles) and Roger Federer (103) as the only men to achieve this feat in the Open Era.
“In Miami, of course. No doubts. I would love to celebrate my 100th title here. We’ll see, it’s a long tournament. This is only the first victory. It gives me confidence, lets me know that I can play this way, but the road is long. I hope to finish well and be in a position to fight for the title, it would be amazing,” (Novak Djokovic).
Having won the Miami Open six times, Djokovic is optimistic about his chances. His next opponent will be Camilo Ugo Carabelli, who advanced by defeating No. 32 seed Alex Michelsen in three sets. Since the ATP Finals in 2023, Djokovic has won just one title, securing an Olympic gold medal in Paris to complete the Career Golden Slam.
Djokovic Matches Nadal’s Masters 1000 Record
Djokovic’s win over Hijikata marked his 410th Masters 1000 match victory, tying Rafael Nadal for the all-time record. The Masters 1000 tournaments have been a crucial part of Djokovic’s career, where he already holds records for the most titles (40), finals (59), and semifinals (78).
After early struggles in 2024, including a disappointing exit in Indian Wells, Djokovic displayed dominance in his Miami opener. He wrapped up the first set in just 27 minutes and secured victory in a second-set tiebreak.
Djokovic will now face Carabelli in the third round. A win would give him sole possession of the record for most Masters 1000 match wins, further cementing his place in history.
News in Brief: Novak Djokovic on Pickleball and Padel
Novak Djokovic addressed the rise of padel and pickleball, suggesting that tennis clubs will evolve into racket sports venues. He also aims for his 100th ATP title at the Miami Open. After defeating Rinky Hijikata, he tied Rafael Nadal’s Masters 1000 match wins record and will face Camilo Ugo Carabelli next.
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