Novak Djokovic may publiclyacknowledge the rise of Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner.
However, beneath that respect lies a competitor who has never stopped believing in his ability to challenge the very best.
Novak's old rival, Jo-Wilfried Tsonga, believes the Serb is still ready to challenge Sinner and Alcaraz on the most notable stage. Despite the age and reduced schedule, Djokovic continues to operate at an elite level.
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Per Tsonga, he enters every match with the same hunger that defined his prime years and their battles. Novak wrapped up the 2025 season in the top-4 following big results at Majors, his favorite scene.
What makes the Belgrade native particularly dangerous is his instinct for timing. At this stage of his career and after everything he has won, Djokovic does not need dominance over an entire season - he needs moments and opened door.
If that happens, he will be on familiar ground, building his career on forcing his way through it thanks to his experience, adaptability and mental resilience to tilt the balance of power.
As the new season unfolds, the battle lines are clear. Carlos and Jannik may be setting the pace with their incredible consistency on the biggest stages over the previous two years.
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However, Djokovic remains hungry to extend his pursuit and test limits. After all, he wants to remind everyone why writinghim off has never been a safe bet.
The 38-year-old will kick off the 2026 campaign in Adelaide, seeking his third title at the ATP 250 event. After that, the legend will travel to Melbourne for his most successful Major, seeking his 11th Australian Open crown and more tennis glory.
"When you hear Novak talk about Carlos and Jannik, putting them on another level, you sometimes get the impression that he has already given up. But I think he is still ready to challenge them.
He continues to play very good tennis. And if there is even an inch of opening, Novak will take it. You can feel that every time he steps onto the court, he is pushing the boundaries even further.
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It will be exciting to follow him this year," Jo-Wilfried Tsonga said.
