Djoko fighting the demons of a 25th Grand Slam title

Novak Djokovic said he is not stressing about if or when he might finally break through for a record 25th Grand Slam singles title.

Instead, the 38-year-old ranked fourth on the ATP is concentrating on his most successful major starting on Sunday, with the Serb aiming for an 11th title here from 21 career appearances.

“There has been a lot of talk about the 25th, but I try to focus myself onwhat I have achieved, not what I’m possibly achieving,” he said on Saturday in the tournament run-up.

“I hope it comes to that, but 24 is also not a bad number. I have to appreciate that and remind myself of the amazing career I had.

“Obviously there is always pressure and expectations, but (it’s not) a make-it-or-break-it type of thing.”

The veteran who reached the semi final of all four majors in 2025 but stalled when faced with Jannik Sinner or Carlos Alcaraz said he’s just glad to be starting another season.

Main photo:-Australian Open 2023 Novak Djokovic (SRB) with winners trophy after he wins Men’s singles final by Roger Parker International Sports Fotos Ltd

“I know that when I’m healthy, when I’m able to put all the pieces of the puzzle 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, and of course I understand that Sinner and Alcaraz are playing on a different level from everybody else. 

“But that doesn’t mean that nobody else has a chance. So I like my chances always, in any tournament, particularly here.”