Novak Djokovic still believes he can beat anyone

As the Australian Open begins in Melbourne, Novak Djokovic is pushing back on two narratives that have followed him into the 2026 season: that the men’s game now belongs exclusively to Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz, and that retirement is nearing.

At 38, Djokovic arrives ranked No. 4 in the world and feeling physically refreshed after taking additional time away from competition late last season.

While Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz combined have won the last eight Grand Slam titles, Djokovic believes his level remains high enough to challenge anyone in Melbourne.

“I understand Sinner and Alcaraz are playing on a different level right now from everybody else,” Djokovic said. “That’s a fact. But that doesn’t mean nobody else has a chance. I like my chances always.”

Djokovic was the third most consistent Grand Slam performer in 2025, reaching four semifinals and finishing the year ranked No. 4. Three of those semifinal losses came against either Sinner or Alcaraz.

“I had a great win against Carlos in the quarters last year,” Djokovic added. “I know that when I’m healthy, when I’m able to put all the pieces together on a given day, I feel like I can beat anybody. If I don’t have that self-belief and confidence in myself, I wouldn’t be here. I still have the drive.”

That belief, Djokovic says, is why talk of retirement feels premature.

“I’ve been asked a lot about the end,” he said during Media Day. “I don’t want to think about it. When it comes, we can discuss a farewell tour. Currently, I’m ranked No. 4 and playing at the highest level. There’s no need to talk about it.”

Djokovic has been selective with his schedule, opting out of the year end ATP Finals in Turin and withdrawing from a warm up event in Adelaide to prioritize recovery. He explained that managing his body has become a greater focus in recent years.

“It takes more time now to rebuild and recover,” he said. “I understand that, and I’ve adjusted. Overall, I feel good and I’m looking forward to competing.”

His most recent breakthrough against the sport’s emerging top duo came at the Australian Open last year, when he defeated Alcaraz in the quarterfinals before sustaining an injury that forced him to withdraw in the semifinals. Despite the abrupt ending, the win remains a source of confidence.

“That match showed me I can still play at that level,” Djokovic said. “This tournament has always brought out my best.”

Djokovic will open his 21st Australian Open appearance against Pedro Martinez in the first round on Monday at the Australian Open, as he pursues an unprecedented 11th title in Melbourne and a record 25th major overall.

For now, Djokovic insists his motivation remains unchanged.

“I’m still living my dream,” he said. “It’s the passion, the competition, the feeling when you walk onto the court. That’s what keeps me going.”