Djokovic’s Resilience
MELBOURNE, Australia — The roster of writers who have prematurely declared Novak Djokovic‘s retirement is extensive, yet the tennis icon consistently defies these narratives. He is solidifying his status as the greatest in tennis history with 24 major championships.
Determined at 38
At 38, Djokovic is not fading from relevance. He remains a powerhouse, continuing to rank in the top 7, being one of the two players to reach the semifinals in all four major tournaments last season, and achieving 100 career tournament victories. His competitive spirit and skill remain strong, making him a formidable opponent for rising stars like Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz.
Recent Competition
Since his last major title at the 2023 US Open, Sinner and Alcaraz have collectively claimed the last eight Slams, leading a new era in tennis. Sinner has defeated Djokovic in their last five encounters, while Djokovic holds a balanced 2-2 record against Alcaraz since early 2024.
Confidence Ahead of the Australian Open
“I acknowledge that Sinner and Alcaraz are currently outperforming everyone else, but that doesn’t eliminate my chances,” Djokovic stated before the Australian Open. He emphasized his self-belief and health as vital factors that could lead him to victory.
Aiming for History
Djokovic aspires to secure a record-setting 25th Grand Slam title, ideally during the Australian Open, where he holds the record with ten championships and an impressive 91% win rate. His past successes at this venue heighten his title aspirations for 2026.
The Legacy Continues
Regardless of the outcome, Djokovic’s presence in championship discussions at this stage of his career is remarkable. Since turning 35, he has won four Grand Slams, reached the semifinals 11 times, and spent 59 weeks at the top of the rankings. He reflects on his journey with gratitude: “I focus on what I’ve accomplished, not solely on the potential 25.” While reaching 25 would be a dream, he acknowledges that 24 is still an impressive feat.
