Novak Djokovic's late arrival for the US Open raises questions about his current priorities and challenges at 38 years old. Historically, the tournament has seen both his greatest triumphs and frustrations, with a record of four titles and five finals lost. This year's absence from hard-court matches is unusual, particularly after skipping Toronto due to injury and pulling out of Cincinnati. Speculation surrounds his preparation, suggesting that rest may have become more important than rhythm. Djokovic's history of defying odds contributes to the uncertainty surrounding his return, prompting questions about his state heading into the tournament.
Djokovic has lifted the trophy four times in New York, but he's also lost five finals here. At 38 years old, he is now balancing more than just opponents across the net.
The silence surrounding his late arrival is puzzling, as he has been absent from the hard-court grind and skipped Toronto due to a groin injury.
Some close to the tour whisper that rest has become just as important to him as rhythm, leading to speculation regarding his preparation for the US Open.
This is Djokovic; he has defied odds so many times that doubt often feels foolish. He lives for that defiance, but this time feels different.
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