For the first time since Wimbledon in 2024, Novak Djokovic will compete in a Major final.
The 38-year-old defeated Jannik Sinner in the Australian Open semi-final to notch his 38th title match on the biggest stage.
En tagen Novak Djokovic har svårt att hitta orden efter semifinalsegern mot Jannik Sinner.
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Novak arrived in Melbourne with many question marks about his physical strength, especially after skipping Adelaide. However, the Serb has managed to overcome all the issues and reach another Major final with a bit of luck.
Now, he stands a win over Carlos Alcaraz from securing his 25th Major crown at nearly 39. During his press conference after dethroning Jannik Sinner, the Belgrade native admitted he was not surprised to book his spot in the title clash.
Despite his age and three defeats to the in last year's Major semi-finals, Djokovic knew he would challenge the world's best players if his body holds up and allow him to deliver his A-game.
He passed three rivals in straight sets to enter the last 16. There, Jakub Mensik gave him a walkover and preserved the veteran's energy. However, Novak struggled big time in the quarter-final against Lorenzo Musetti.
Novak Djokovic, Australian Open 2026© X – Lacoste
The legend dropped the opening two sets after losing serve five times and looked good to book his flight home. However, Lorenzo got injured and retired in the fifth game of the third set.
Thus, Djokovic got a chance to continue his tournament and used it with both hands. The ten-time champion in Melbourne endured all the challenges against Jannik Sinner and defeated the favorite in five sets.
Novak trailed two times before performing a 3-6, 6-3, 4-6, 6-4, 6-4 victory in four hours and nine minutes. The Serb denied 16 of 18 break points and limited the damage in his games.
Jannik fired over 70 winners but did not win the pivotal points. The Italian suffered three breaks, including the crucial one at 3-3 in the final set. Djokovic faced issues in three service games of the decider.
However, he denied all eight break points to keep his initial shot intact and earn a notable victory that sent him closer to his 25th Major crown.
"I'm not surprised by what I'm doing here in Melbourne. I know perfectly well what I'm capable of, because I have already proven it many times in my career," Novak Djokovic said.
