Novak Djokovic remains determined to compete with Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner at Majors in 2026. The legend spoke about the world's leading players ahead of his first match at the Shanghai Masters.
The 38-year-old stopped the clock on the most notable scene in 2025, reaching all four Major semi-finals as only the second player alongside Jannik. Thus, the Belgrade native maintained his trademark consistency at the sport's biggest stages.
However, Novak keeps things real! The legend admitted that the physical demands of the best-of-five format make the challenge tougher than ever against two dominant youngsters.
Djokovic is fully aware that facing much younger and fresher rivals like Carlos and Jannik requires being in peak condition - something increasingly difficult to sustain seven months before turning 39.
With that in mind, Novak sees Masters 1000 events as the best opportunity to keep lifting notable trophies. The Serb missed an opportunity to achieve that earlier this year, falling to Jakub Mensik in two tie breaks in Miami.
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The shorter and less demanding best-of-three format allows him to manage his body more efficiently while still competing at the highest level against the world's elite.
Despite acknowledging the natural challenges of age, Djokovic's motivation and discipline remain intact long after achieving everything our sport has to offer. His presence on the ATP Tour continues to inspire.
While he adjusts his ambitions, the 24-time Major winner remains motivated to stay relevant among the world's best players. At 38, Novak is the third-oldest top-5 player in ATP ranking history.
The Shanghai Masters presents another opportunity for Djokovic to test himself against the generation he once inspired, with the potential semi-final clash against the defending champion, Jannik Sinner.
The Serb and the Italian battled in the title clash a year ago, with the 23-year-old scoring a 7-6, 6-3 victory. The Belgrade native kicks off his campaign against Marin Cilic.
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"I'm still working at 100% because I want to compete with Carlos and Jannik at Majors. If you are not completely physically ready to face them, your entire game is affected.
I know it's getting tougher to beat them in the best-of-five encounters because I do not enter our duels as fresh as before. It's a reality I have to accept. My biggest chances to win a notable title are at a Masters 100 events," Novak Djokovic said.
