The debate around Novak Djokovic's future at the sport's biggest events refuses to fade, and for good reason. As the Serb approaches the 2026 season, respected coach Rick Macci believes there is still a clear andrealistic path toward a historic 25th Major title.
At 38, the formula is no longer about domination week after week, as in 2023. Now, it's about timing, recovery and seized opportunities. Djokovic's 2025 run confirms he remains a formidable presence at Majors.
The veteran reached all four semi-finals, losing them but repeatedly reminding the Tour that experience still matters when pressure peaks. After all, Novak has been through everything our sport has offered in the previous two decades.
The key, according to Macci, lies in avoiding physical marathons. Five-set epics, once an easy task for Djokovic, now come at a steeper cost, which we clearly witnessed in 2025.
A cleaner route througha demanding draw would significantly increase the legend's chances, as it would allow him recovery days and minimize extended battles. He is still capable of passing them, but his body takes increasingly more time to recover.
Another key factor is the current hierarchy at the top. Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz have won every Major title since the beginning of 2024, defeating Djokovic en route to notable trophies.
However, as always throughout tennis history, even the most dominant eras leave room for surprise. Should openings appear, few players are better equipped to exploit them than Novak.
His familiarity with the moment separates the 24-time Major winner from the rest. After all, the Belgrade native has carried expectations, survived chaos and delivered under pressure more times than any player in history.
If the conditions align in the upcoming 2026, Djokovic's pursuit of another Major trophy may be more than nostalgia - it may be unfinished business, as he still feels hungry for more despite achieving everything.
"Asked if the Joker can win a Major in 2026. Yes! 1. If Sinner/ Alcaraz get upset or injured. 2. If he does not have five-set street fights and has time to recover. Can the Serbian Sniper the Rubber Band Man win another Major? Yes, because he has been there, done that!" Rick Macci said.
