Not Jannik Sinner, Carlos Alcaraz: Novak Djokovic names his biggest on-court rival

For nearly two decades, Novak Djokovic has battled some of the best players tennis has ever seen. From epic clashes with Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal to recent duels against Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner, the Serb has built a legacy of overcoming formidable opponents.

Still, when asked to name his greatest on-court rival, Djokovic didn’t mention any of his contemporaries. Instead, the 24-time Grand Slam champion responded with a simple answer: “Me always.”

Djokovic’s response offered a glimpse into the thinking this has helped him remain at the top of the sport at the age of 39. The former world number one, who holds the men’s record 428 weeks at the top of the ATP rankings, admitted his toughest battle was often with his own expectations and relentless drive to improve.

“There’s always something to prove, mainly to myself, to others, but mainly to myself, that I can always be better than I was yesterday,” Djokovic said during an appearance on CBS Mornings to promote his upcoming documentary The Wolf in Winter.

After winning 24 major titles, an Olympic gold medal and completing a career gold slam at Paris 2024, the Serb has little left in the sport.

DJOKOVIC OPENS UP ON MOTIVATION AND AGING

As Djokovic continues to chase success, he acknowledged that competing at the highest level is becoming increasingly difficult as his body begins to feel the effects of more than two decades on tour.

“The body reacts differently and that’s just biology. The wear and tear of more than 20 years at the highest level takes its toll. So it takes me longer to recover,” Djokovic said.

The Serb pointed to his recent defeat to Jannik Sinner after a grueling quarterfinal that lasted five hours and 15 minuteshe admitted that he was unable to fully recover in time for the semi-finals.

“After that five hour and fifteen minute quarter final I just couldn’t quite recover for the semi final and I wasn’t as fresh as I wanted to be. But not to take anything away from Sinner who won and went on to win the tournament. Today is different,” he added.

Despite his physical struggles, Djokovic insists there are still plenty of things to keep him motivated. Chief among these factors is the support he continues to receive from fans around the world.

“One of the biggest reasons I’m still competing is the energy of the crowd and the recognition and respect I’ve been getting, especially in the last few years around the world. It’s something I can’t thank people enough for. It matters a lot,” Djokovic said.

As the US Open approaches, Djokovic remains determined to challenge the new generation led by Sinner and Alcaraz. But even with all his records and achievements, the Serb believes his toughest opponent is still staring at him from the other side of the net.

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Issued by:

sabyasachi chowdhury

Published on:

18 Jul 2026 14:13 IST