Novak Djokovic Reflects on US Open Loss, Future Plans
Novak Djokovic remains determined to win more Grand Slam titles despite recent loss to Carlos Alcaraz. Read more about his future plans.
“I still want to play Grand Slams, Grand Slam season, full Grand Slam season next year. Let's see whether that's going to happen or not...”
Novak Djokovic remains resolute in his pursuit of Grand Slam titles, despite a humbling defeat to Carlos Alcaraz in the US Open semifinals. The 38-year-old Serbian tennis star lost 6-4, 7-6(4), 6-2 to the 22-year-old Spaniard, marking the first time he failed to reach a major final since 2017. Djokovic said, “I'm not giving up on Grand Slams. I'll keep fighting. But yes, it's going to be a very difficult task.”
A Changing of the Guard
Djokovic's exit signals a shift in the tennis landscape, with Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz emerging as dominant forces. Three of the four Grand Slams this year have now ended with losses to either Alcaraz or Sinner, highlighting the challenge Djokovic faces in maintaining his top-tier performance. Despite his 24 Grand Slam titles, the Serbian legend acknowledges the strain of his 38 years against the youthful energy of his competitors.
While it's too soon to determine if Djokovic will play a full Grand Slam season next year, he's focused on the upcoming tournaments. He'll aim to add to his tally at Wimbledon, his childhood favorite tournament. Djokovic has appointed Andy Murray as his new coach, sparking speculation about a potential resurgence. Despite doubts about his ability to rediscover past glories, Djokovic remains determined to continue competing at the highest level.
“I'm happy with my level of tennis, but you know, it's just the physicality of it," said Djokovic, who lifted the last of his four US Open titles two years ago.
“It will be very difficult for me in the future to overcome the hurdle of Sinner, Alcaraz, in the best-of-five on the Grand Slams. I think I have a better chance (in) best-of-three, but best-of-five, it's tough.”
The highly anticipated match between Novak Djokovic and Carlos Alcaraz was the hottest ticket in New York, with a packed Arthur Ashe Stadium cheering on the Serbian tennis star. Two decades after his Flushing Meadows main draw debut, Djokovic delivered a reasonably clean performance, showcasing his trademark creativity with some impressive net shots. However, he struggled to keep up with Alcaraz's intensity, managing only half as many winners as his younger opponent.
Carlos Alcaraz defeats Novak Djokovic for the very first time on hard courts! pic.twitter.com/H2ONU47L0a
— US Open Tennis (@usopen) September 5, 2025
Despite his loss, Djokovic remains optimistic about his future in Grand Slams, saying, “I'm not giving up on Grand Slams.” This determination comes after a challenging year, where he lost to Jannik Sinner in the Wimbledon and Roland Garros semi-finals and retired in his Australian Open semi-final clash with Alexander Zverev. The 38-year-old Serbian tennis star acknowledges the strain of competing against younger opponents but is focused on continuing to compete at the highest level.
“At least at this stage of my career, I mean, I'm not thinking that far,” he told reporters.
“I still want to play Grand Slams, Grand Slam season, full Grand Slam season next year. Let's see whether that's going to happen or not.”
A run to be proud of, @DjokerNole 👏 pic.twitter.com/9tZ0qAbWDk
— US Open Tennis (@usopen) September 5, 2025
Novak Djokovic remains determined to continue competing at the highest level, despite his recent loss to Carlos Alcaraz in the US Open semifinals. “I'm going to continue fighting and trying to get to the finals and fight for another trophy at least,” Djokovic said. “But, you know, it's going to be a very difficult task.” He acknowledges the challenge posed by younger players like Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner, who have dominated the Grand Slam tournaments this year.
Djokovic's immediate focus is on his upcoming tournament in Athens, but he's uncertain about participating in the Australian Open next year. The 38-year-old Serbian tennis star recognizes the physical demands of the sport and the need to adapt to the evolving landscape of men's tennis. Despite his age and the increasing difficulty of keeping up with his younger rivals, Djokovic expressed his gratitude for the support he receives from fans worldwide.
NOVAK DJOKOVIC.
— US Open Tennis (@usopen) September 5, 2025
We are not worthy. pic.twitter.com/1uOtHA3jqF
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