Djokovic Proposes Radical Changes to Make Tennis More Appealing

Novak Djokovic has suggested that tennis needs to be 'more fun' for younger fans, proposing the introduction of dancers on court during breaks to make the sport more entertaining.

Novak Djokovic has called for tennis to be made “more fun” for younger fans, suggesting that the sport needs to adapt to the changing times. The 37-year-old Serbian veteran believes that tennis has been slow to keep pace with the new generation, which has a shorter attention span. “Tennis needs to be more fun,” Djokovic said, highlighting the need for innovation to attract and retain younger fans.

Djokovic proposed an unusual solution to make tennis more entertaining: bringing dancers on court during breaks. He believes that this type of light entertainment could help fans and players relax during matches. This suggestion came after Djokovic admitted to getting "hot-headed" with elements of the crowd during his Australian Open third-round win against Tomas Machac. By introducing more entertainment, Djokovic hopes to create a more enjoyable atmosphere for everyone involved.

“I think that we should try to look to connect more with the younger people,” he said. “I want to see a little bit more entertainment.

“For example, why wouldn't we consider doing something between the sets like the Super Bowl or, I don't know, the NBA?

“When there is a timeout, they have, you know, dancers come in and this and that. I wouldn't have a problem with that.

“Nice dancers, there for a few minutes more break so I can relax my nerves and think about something else.

“I feel like it would bring more fun elements and entertainment to tennis, that we know has been quite traditional and maybe conservative in some things.”

One more step towards the 𝙧𝙚𝙘𝙤𝙧𝙙!

Novak Djokovic reaches Round 4 at the Australian Open with straight sets victory over Tomas Machac 💫#AusOpen pic.twitter.com/5yB3XmIGrh

— Eurosport (@eurosport) January 17, 2025

Novak Djokovic, who is currently competing for a record 25th Grand Slam title in Melbourne, expressed his respect for the traditions of Wimbledon, stating that he would not suggest introducing dancers or other entertainment elements at the All England Club. “With Wimbledon I wouldn't change much. I would keep it as it is because it's so unique, all white and strawberries and cream and everything about it is just so elegant and classy,” he said, highlighting the tournament's distinctive character.

However, Djokovic was more open to the idea of introducing new concepts at other Grand Slam tournaments. He specifically mentioned the US Open, suggesting that the event could incorporate more entertainment elements, given the country's reputation for showmanship. “But all the others, US Open, I mean, in USA, you guys know very well what entertainment is about. So I'm up for it, just like maybe gradual changes. Dancers first,” he said, proposing a potential starting point for innovation.