Djokovic dismisses notion of chasing younger rivals
Novak Djokovic expressed frustration at suggestions that he is now pursuing Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz at Grand Slam tournaments, labelling the characterisation “a little bit disrespectful” during a tense post-match press conference at the Australian Open, reports BritPanorama.
The 24-time Grand Slam champion reacted strongly when a journalist compared his current competitive landscape to his early career, when he lagged behind Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal. “I’m chasing Jannik and Carlos? In which sense? So I’m always the chaser and I’m never being chased?” he inquired.
In defending his position, the 38-year-old asserted that the question ignored roughly 15 years of his dominance in the sport. “I don’t feel like I’m chasing, to be honest,” he noted, emphasising his desire to “create my own history” rather than follow behind others.
Advancing to the semi-finals, Djokovic faced a somewhat unexpected pathway after Lorenzo Musetti withdrew mid-match due to injury, having been two sets down—6-4, 6-3—before his opponent’s condition deteriorated while trailing 3-1 in the third set.
Djokovic’s unexpected advance secured his place in the last four for a seventh consecutive year at Melbourne Park, where he has secured the title ten times. He apologised for the delay in beginning his press conference, thanking the media for their patience.
Acknowledging that Sinner and Alcaraz currently outperform him, Djokovic remained resolute, making it clear he does not intend to concede defeat in his pursuit of a record 25th Grand Slam title. “Are they better right now than me and all the other guys? Yes, they are. I mean, the quality and the level is amazing. It’s great. It’s phenomenal,” he admitted, but added, “Does that mean that I walk out with a white flag? No.”
“I’m going to fight until the last shot, until the last point, and do my very best to challenge them,” he stressed. He praised the emerging rivalry between the younger players, noting that such competition enhances the sport’s appeal.
Djokovic will next play either defending champion Sinner or American Ben Shelton for a place in the final. Both Sinner and Alcaraz have captured the last eight Major titles, while Djokovic has reached the semi-finals at all four Grand Slams in 2025, positioning him as a prominent contender this season.
His record in Grand Slam tournaments further illustrates his enduring ability: since his withdrawal due to injury against Alexander Zverev in last year’s Melbourne semi-final, his only defeats at this level have come from the hands of Sinner and Alcaraz. Should he triumph in his upcoming match, Djokovic may find himself facing an opportunity for redemption.
For Djokovic, the road ahead holds significant challenges, but also the potential for historic achievements—a testament to his resilience and an ongoing rivalry that keeps fans on the edge of their seats.
