Novak Djokovic calls for shorter tennis sets, draws criticism

Serbian tennis champion Novak Djokovic, a 24‑time Grand Slam winner, suggested a radical overhaul of tennis scoring. He proposed playing sets to four games instead of six, eliminating the advantage point, and using a best‑of‑five format so matches stay within a two‑hour window. Djokovic said the changes would make the sport more attractive to younger viewers and mentioned the idea during an interview with content creator Nick Coutracos at a Fanatics Fest event in New York.

The proposal sparked debate on the tour. Brazilian 19‑year‑old João Fonseca, who won the Next Gen Finals using a four‑game set format, responded that Djokovic’s suggestion likely stems from his own aging physique, saying, “He’s getting older, that’s why he wants the change.” Fonseca also emphasized the historic importance of the traditional six‑game set. American player Ben Shelton expressed openness to testing the new format, while other commentators noted the tension between tradition and modernization.

The discussion has circulated through media outlets in Brazil, Serbia, the United States, Canada and elsewhere, highlighting the broader tension over how tennis might evolve to retain audience interest.