Novak Djokovic will now have his sights set firmly on the Australian Open, which returns to Melbourne next month.
Djokovic boasts 10 Australian Open titles, claiming his maiden Grand Slam success at the event back in 2008.
It is, however, Jannik Sinner who has dominated the tournament in recent times, lifting the Australian Open trophy in both 2024 and 2025.
But even with such dominance from the Italian, former ATP number one Djokovic could still be a real threat at the first Grand Slam of 2026.
Novak Djokovic deserves praise with coaching addition before the Australian Open
Djokovic has been preparing for the tournament behind the scenes in a major way, bringing Mark Kovacs into his team.
Kovacs, who has previously worked with WTA star Coco Gauff, is set to help the Serbian with his physical conditioning, injury prevention and recovery.
He is also a biomechanics specialist, with all of the above proving that Djokovic is still willing to learn and try to improve.
Who will win the 2026 Australian Open?
Despite winding down at the age of 38, and more importantly despite enjoying so much success, the veteran clearly wants more.
It’s an admirable decision from Djokovic, who could so easily down tools at this stage of his career, particularly with the rise of Sinner and Alcaraz.
READ MORE: Novak Djokovic is about to match one of Roger Federer’s all-time records at the Australian Open
Why the Australian Open is Novak Djokovic’s best chance of Grand Slam success in 2026
First and foremost, Djokovic should be confident of winning the Australian Open more than any other Grand Slam this year given his history at the event.
With 10 titles, more than any other male player, the Serbian clearly feels at home on the hard courts of Melbourne.
Secondly, he should be feeling very well rested going into the tournament given its place in the 2026 calendar.
Who is your favorite ATP player right now?
And given that he isn’t getting any younger, Djokovic may just throw everything he has into winning this Grand Slam, in a bid to move beyond Margaret Court to 25 titles.
Even with his decline and the presence of Sinner and Alcaraz, a full-throttle Djokovic is still a very formidable opponent indeed.
Receive exclusive tennis news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
