Don’t Expect Too Much’ – Pegula’s Coach Casts Doubt on Djokovic’s Post-Retirement Impact”

Interestingly, Djokovic has hinted at staying engaged in tennis after his competitive days end.

During media engagements, he has talked about imparting his knowledge to younger players rather than “taking it to the grave.” In one playful yet serious exchange, he remarked that he planned to coach rising talent Joao Fonseca — “but I’m going to be very expensive for him.”

Such statements suggest Djokovic sees value in mentorship, yet they stop short of a full blueprint. They leave open the question: will his post‑retirement role be significant — or symbolic?

🏁 The Stakes & The Debate

The coach’s cautionary remark has reignited a broader debate: Do great athletes always become great post‑career contributors? The track record is mixed — some legends fade into quiet lives, others find new relevance in coaching, administration, media, or philanthropy.

For Djokovic, the pressure is perhaps even greater. Given his towering success, fans might expect him to redefine the next phase of the sport itself. Pegula’s coach is effectively urging humility: don’t assume an encore of the same magnitude.