Djokovic Keeps Belief Alive, but How Many Slams Remain?

Djokovic Still Believes – But How Many Slams Does He Have Left?

Novak Djokovic says he “still believes” he can win another Grand Slam, but his four-set defeat to Carlos Alcaraz in the Australian Open 2026 final has once again raised questions about how much longer the 38-year-old can challenge the next generation.

The 24-time major winner had dominated Melbourne Park for over a decade, but his 2–6, 6–2, 6–3, 7–5 loss to the Spanish world number one on Sunday might prove to be a significant turning point in the men’s game.

“Who knows what happens tomorrow, never mind the next six or 12 months, but it’s been a great ride,” Djokovic said, leaving fans and pundits speculating about his future.

Still a Believer – But Not an Expectant One

Djokovic remains philosophical:

“I have belief and always have confidence and vision to win a Slam anywhere – but I do not expect it. That’s different.”

While age and physical demands are now clear obstacles, Djokovic’s passion remains. He entered the final after an epic semi-final win over Jannik Sinner, only to fall short against a fresher and more dynamic Alcaraz.

Fatigue and Fine Margins

Having finished his semi-final at 6am and skipping practice on Saturday, Djokovic was electric in the first set of the final but struggled to maintain that tempo.

Alcaraz, 22, grew stronger as the match went on. Djokovic couldn’t match the intensity across four sets, despite glimpses of brilliance.

“I beat one [Sinner], which is great… It’s encouraging but not enough for me. Let’s see. I’m going to keep pushing and see if I get another chance,” said Djokovic.

How Long Can He Keep Going?

According to 1987 Wimbledon champion Pat Cash, the challenge for Djokovic now is recovery:

“Nobody knows what it’s like for a 38-year-old to play at this level and then recover.”

With Sinner and Alcaraz forming a new elite duo in men’s tennis, Djokovic remains the most dangerous third option — but even he admits the expectations must shift.

Luck and the Long Road Ahead

Djokovic benefited from luck this year:

• Avoided third-round default after swiping a ball that nearly hit a ball girl

• Fourth-round opponent withdrew injured

• Quarter-final rival Lorenzo Musetti retired despite leading two sets to love

Yet even with fortune on his side, Alcaraz proved a step too far.

Will Roland Garros Be His Next Shot?

Though Djokovic has tied Margaret Court’s all-time record of 24 majors, the elusive 25th now feels more distant. He insists he’s not driven solely by numbers:

“I’ve lowered expectations… I don’t want to be overwhelmed by emotion.”

But as the tour heads toward Roland Garros in May, expect Djokovic to be watching closely — or stepping back onto the red clay for another shot at tennis immortality.