Novak Djokovic admitted to being completely overwhelmed by Jannik Sinner in the defeat in the men's singles semi-finals of Wimbledon 2026.
The world No. 1 player won after 3 sets with the same score of 6-4. Djokovic, 39 years old, struggled to catch up with the intensity, strength and stability of the Italian player throughout the match.
When asked if he plans to return to Wimbledon next year when he turns 40, Djokovic clarified his intention but still left open the possibility of changing his schedule in the future.
I want to come back, at least once again. Let's see," Djokovic said.
This defeat is another reminder of the challenge that the Serbian tennis icon must face when the new generation of this sport. However, the 24-time Grand Slam title holder denies the view that he is inferior due to age.
Despite the disappointing results, Djokovic still affirmed that he is proud of this Wimbledon journey and the level of form he can maintain against younger opponents.
I am proud of what I have achieved," he said, referring to the quarter-final victory over Felix Auger-Aliassime, "Felix is the world No. 3 or No. 4 player. I have proven to myself and others that I can still play at the highest level.
I have entered the Top 4 strongest players of Wimbledon. This tournament brings me positive things about my attitude on the court, fighting spirit and dedication".
Djokovic caught Margaret Court's all-time record for Grand Slam titles when winning the 2023 US Open.
Although he has clearly shown in the last 3 seasons that his main focus is to win more titles at this level, he said he is starting to get tired of the discussions around this topic.
Everyone, please look at everything objectively. That really started to make me a little uncomfortable because somehow, as if what I did was not enough for myself, and then others put more pressure on me," Djokovic shared.
Like 24 is not enough but must be 25, 100 is not enough but must be 110, 400 weeks in the number 1 position is not enough but must be 1,000. Celebrate, rejoice in what has been achieved and be humble, realistic as well as more grateful in that sense.
That's my reminder to myself because I'm really sick of talking about when the 25th title will come... and what will happen if it never comes? What else? Is that a failed career?
He added: "A very important thing that you need to know is that many people are burdening me. I understand that people really want me to win my 25th title, and I do, but that's not the ultimate goal.
For Djokovic, the bigger question at this time is not whether he still has the ability to compete, but how long he wants to continue to push himself to overcome the strict physical requirements of top tennis.
The great Serbian tennis player admitted that, although the desire is still there, preparing for major tournaments is becoming increasingly difficult.
Currently, Djokovic's focus is still on restoring his fitness and deciding the next chapter for his career.
With Wimbledon still maintaining a special position in his ambitions, his message about returning to SW19 in 2027 is very clear.
