"I support Djokovic skipping tournaments before the US Open," Connors commented on his podcast, referring to Djokovic's withdrawal from both the Canadian Open and Cincinnati Open, two Masters 1000 events. Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner also skipped the Masters 1000 tournament in Montreal.

According to the American legend, Djokovic doesn't need more match play; he needs rest to prepare for the final Grand Slam of the year. Connors sees few opponents capable of stopping Djokovic in New York later this month.

"Djokovic is older, but he’s still playing well," added Connors, the record holder for 109 ATP Tour titles. "Of course, you need a few warm-up matches for the US Open. But sometimes, it’s not essential. Those warm-up tournaments are best-of-three sets, while the US Open goes up to five."

Djokovic at last year’s US Open, where he lost to Popyrin in the third round at Arthur Ashe Stadium, New York. Photo: Reuters

Djokovic at last year’s US Open, where he lost to Popyrin in the third round at Arthur Ashe Stadium, New York. Photo: Reuters

Connors pointed out that many players who win tournaments leading up to the US Open often exit early at the hard-court Grand Slam. He considers Wimbledon and the US Open the two most prestigious majors, surpassing the Australian Open and Roland Garros. The 72-year-old legend said: "When I was playing, I used to start preparing for next year’s Wimbledon and US Open as soon as the current tournament ended. The other events were simply to fill the calendar."

Djokovic reached the semifinals of three Grand Slams this year, losing twice to world number one Jannik Sinner. The Italian, along with Carlos Alcaraz, will be Djokovic's biggest obstacles at the US Open. Sinner is the defending champion, while Alcaraz won the title in 2022.

The US Open was the last Grand Slam Nole won, in 2023. However, he was eliminated early in the third round last year by Alexei Popyrin. Djokovic's most recent Grand Slam final appearance was at Wimbledon in 2024, where he lost to Alcaraz.

"The last major of the year always has room for surprises," Connors added. "Djokovic can do his part, and who knows, an opportunity might arise if one of his rivals falters."

Vy Anh