Novak Djokovic Shrugs Off Retirement Talk, Eyes Australian Open Glory.
Novak Djokovic has dismissed speculation about retirement, insisting he still fancies his chances at the Australian Open 2026. With 24 Grand Slam titles to his name, the Serbian star is just one win away from surpassing Margaret Court to become the outright all-time leader.
Djokovic’s last major triumph came at the 2023 US Open, and his journey since has been a mixed bag. In 2025, he reached the semi-finals of all four Grand Slams, only to be halted by the likes of Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz. The 38-year-old has also struggled with injuries, including a retirement from last year’s Australian Open semi-final against Alexander Zverev. Despite this, he says tennis continues to give him an adrenaline rush.
“I’m the last guy that should complain or regret anything. I’ve broken almost every record in the sport. I’m eternally grateful to tennis for allowing me to travel the world and live my dream,” Djokovic said. “Achievements are motivating, but not the only motivation. It’s the passion, the love for the game, the energy you feel on court. That adrenaline rush is almost like a drug. Many top athletes can relate to that.”
On retirement, Djokovic remained noncommittal. “I’ve been asked a lot about when the end will come, but I don’t want to talk about it yet. I’m still #4 in the world and competing at the highest level. When the time is right, I’ll share it and we can discuss a farewell tour. Right now, I’m here to compete.”
“When I’m healthy, I can beat anyone”
Acknowledging the current dominance of Sinner and Alcaraz, Djokovic stressed that he still believes in himself. “I had a great win against Carlos in the quarters last year. When I’m healthy and all the pieces come together, I feel I can beat anyone. If I didn’t have that self-belief, I wouldn’t be here. I still have the drive.”
He added, “Sinner and Alcaraz are playing on another level, that’s true. But that doesn’t mean nobody else has a chance. I always like my chances.”
Djokovic will kick off his Australian Open campaign against Pedro Martinez on Monday, January 19.
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