2025 certainly provided some answers for Novak Djokovic, who wanted to see if he can still be competitive at the highest level at 38. The former world No.1 has reached the semifinals in Grand Slam tournaments played this year, as well as lifting two trophies (in Geneva and Athens respectively).
The Serbian legend has once again shown that he knows how to raise his level when it matters most and has reached third position in the ATP Race despite a very short schedule, which is why he can certainly be satisfied with what he has achieved this season.
At the same time, the 24-time Grand Slam champion has suffered more injuries than expected and has not been able to compete to the best of his ability in several matches played this year. He himself admitted that his body no longer offers him the same guarantees as in the past, which is why he plans to change something during this off-season in view of 2026.
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Nole is already thinking about 2026
In addition, Nole has to face two amazing rivals much younger than him. The reference is obviously to Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz, who are superior to Novak especially in the best of five sets. The Italian ace defeated him at both Roland Garros and the Wimbledon Championships (in the semifinals on both occasions), while the 22-year-old Spaniard demolished him in the US Open semifinals at the end of the summer.
Interviewed by 'Tennis365', former ATP ace Greg Rusedski said that Djokovic could still triumph only in London: "Everyone wonders if he has any chance of beating Alcaraz and Sinner in a best-of-five-set match and the answer is probably negative. Maybe he can only succeed at Wimbledon. If he still likes challenges, it is right that he continues to play at the highest level and no one can criticize him. The most serious mistake that can be made is to dismiss a legend of his caliber. I made this mistake in the past and regretted it."
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The Serbian veteran's first huge goal in 2026 will be the Australian Open in Melbourne.
