Novak Djokovic: “For Me, It’s Not Good Enough”

Following his straight-sets defeat to Jannik Sinner, the 24-time Grand Slam champion admitted that, despite another good run at Wimbledon, he still measures success by one thing which is winning titles.

Djokovic’s title hopes came to an end with a 6-4, 6-4, 6-4 defeat to world No. 1 Jannik Sinner, who advanced to his second consecutive Wimbledon final.

While many players would celebrate reaching the latter stages of a Grand Slam, Djokovic admitted his expectations remain much higher.

“For 99% of players that would be a very good Grand Slam result. For me, it’s not good enough.”

The Serbian explained that years of competing for the biggest titles have shaped the standards he sets for himself.

“I’m blessed and cursed to be used to something of the highest degree in terms of results and achievements.”

Despite the disappointment, Djokovic acknowledged Sinner was simply the better player on the day.

“Of course I’m disappointed. Of course I wanted to win Wimbledon. That’s the reason why I’m still pushing myself so hard. I just lost to a better player.”

He also admitted there was little he could have done to change the outcome.

“He was just a level or two better than I was. There was not much I could do on the court.”

Asked whether he could still leave Wimbledon satisfied after reaching another semifinal, Djokovic said he is constantly balancing his drive to win with the reality of competing at 39 years old.

“I’m telling myself, ‘Look, this is amazing that you’re still able to play at such a high level and push the youngsters.’ But at the same time, I always have the highest expectations for myself.”

Although Sinner ended his Wimbledon campaign, Djokovic made it clear that retirement is not yet on his mind.

“I don’t have any pressure. No one is forcing me to play. I do it because I really want to and because I still can play as a top-five player. Let’s see what the future brings.”