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Jake Michaels
MELBOURNE, Australia — The roster of those who have declared Novak Djokovic’s tennis career over is nearly as extensive as the accolades amassed by the tennis icon. Yet, time and again, Djokovic has defied expectations, solidifying what is now indisputably the most remarkable legacy in tennis with 24 major titles.
There’s no denying his desire to further ink his name in the record books — even at the age of 38, when time is not on his side.
He shows no signs of fading into obscurity. As the second-oldest player in the sport, and the oldest currently within the ATP’s top 60, Djokovic spent the last season ranked among the top 7, being one of only two players to reach the semifinals in all four majors and becoming the third player in history to achieve 100 tournament victories. He still holds all the attributes, strategy, power, and — perhaps most importantly — the ambition to compete with everyone in the sport, including Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz, the formidable pair that has seemingly dominated the competition over the past two years, and who are likely his most significant hurdles to another title in Australia.
Since Djokovic’s victory at the 2023 US Open, his last major win, Sinner and Alcaraz have collectively secured the subsequent eight Slams, inaugurating a new era of supremacy in tennis. World No. 2 Sinner has triumphed over Djokovic in their last five encounters, including the semifinal stage of the Australian Open, French Open, and Wimbledon. Djokovic has had a more favorable record against No. 1-ranked Alcaraz: they are tied 2-2 in their head-to-head meetings since the beginning of 2024.
“I know Sinner and Alcaraz are currently playing at a level well above everyone else. That’s a fact. But that doesn’t mean others have no chance,” a confident Djokovic stated ahead of the Australian Open. “I believe in my chances in any tournament, especially here. When I’m healthy and can align all the pieces on a given day, I feel capable of beating anyone.”
“If I lack that self-belief and confidence, I wouldn’t be here. Right now, I’m still ranked No. 4 in the world and competing at the highest level. I’m just thankful for another opportunity, particularly here. I always enjoy playing in Australia.”
If Djokovic aims to reach the outright record of 25 major singles titles, it would be both appropriate and plausible if he were to achieve it during this fortnight at the Australian Open, a Grand Slam he has dominated throughout his career. Djokovic holds a record 10 titles at this event, boasts a 91% win rate at Melbourne Park, and has lost merely six matches over 19 years. The iconic blue hard court at Rod Laver Arena might as well be his second home; a place where he has produced some of his most dazzling tennis and countless memorable moments, all of which are critical to his title prospects in 2026.
Perhaps an additional advantage for Djokovic as he approaches the final chapter of his career is that, despite his impressive accolades, very few expect him to overcome either Sinner or Alcaraz in best-of-five-set matches. Is there a chance they might underestimate him? Maybe, maybe not. Both players will be focused on chasing their own historic achievements this fortnight, which only adds pressure and expectations onto their shoulders. Sinner is aiming to join Djokovic as the only men in the Open era to win the Australian Open three years in a row. Meanwhile, if Alcaraz claims the title this year, he would become the youngest player (at age 22) to complete the career Slam.
Nevertheless, Djokovic remains unfazed, concentrating solely on how to disrupt their plans.
“My main focus is on taking care of my body, gaining momentum, and avoiding unnecessary exertion,” Djokovic noted. “[Last year], I lacked a bit of energy in my legs to compete against these guys in the latter stages of a Grand Slam. yet, I am definitely doing my best, and I believe I have challenged them on their way to the titles. We all know how skilled they are, and they undoubtedly deserve their rankings. Hopefully, I can advance far again and get a chance to face them.”
No matter the outcome of Djokovic’s Australian Open journey, the mere fact that he is still in serious championship discussions at this stage of his career, let alone being a legitimate title contender, is astonishing. His durability and excellence are unmatched and likely won’t be seen again. Since turning 35 a little over 3½ years ago, Djokovic has clinched four Grand Slam titles, reached the semifinals 11 times, won two ATP Finals, secured an Olympic gold medal, and spent 59 weeks at world No. 1. Such achievements are certainly worthy of a place in the tennis Hall of Fame.
“There’s been much chatter about the 25th title, but I prefer to focus on what I’ve accomplished, not on what I’m aiming to achieve,” Djokovic remarked. “I’m the last person who should complain or have regrets. I’ve shattered nearly every record there is in this sport and am eternally thankful to tennis for allowing me to travel the globe and live my dream. Honestly, I’m still living my dream. I hope for [25] to become a reality, but 24 is also a commendable number!”
