Novak Djokovic is determined to return to the Grand Slam stage in 2024 with a strong challenge against rising stars Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz, after a relatively disappointing season in 2023. The 24-time Grand Slam champion, who dominated the tennis world by securing three of the four majors last year, faces a tough 2024 ahead after failing to win any Grand Slam titles for the first time since 2017.
Sinner, the World No. 1, dethroned Djokovic at the Australian Open earlier this year, securing his first Grand Slam title. The 23-year-old Italian also triumphed over Djokovic in the Shanghai Masters final in October. Meanwhile, Sinner capped off a stellar season by claiming the ATP Finals title, while Djokovic was forced to withdraw from the event due to injury.
In addition to Djokovic’s injury woes, he also withdrew from the French Open quarter-finals because of a knee issue. This opened the door for Alcaraz, who dominated Roland Garros, with 14-time champion Rafael Nadal losing early to Alexander Zverev. Alcaraz, the 21-year-old Spanish sensation, also retained his Wimbledon crown in 2024. However, Djokovic showcased his resilience by clinching his first Olympic gold in Paris, defeating Alcaraz three weeks after their Wimbledon final.
Despite the setbacks, Djokovic remains confident in his ability to compete at the highest level. In an interview with Gazzetta dello Sport, he expressed his readiness to challenge the new generation of top players. “Sinner and Alcaraz have established themselves as the two best players in the world, not to forget Zverev,” said Djokovic. “All of them will be main contenders for the Grand Slams, but I feel physically and mentally ready to play my tennis again, and I believe my experience can be crucial in challenging them.”
After slipping to No. 7 in the ATP rankings, Djokovic admitted that 2024 was one of his least successful seasons in the past decade. “Next year, I will focus on playing more tournaments, with the Grand Slams as my priority. I will give my best to win, if my body allows me,” he stated.
When asked for advice for Sinner, Djokovic acknowledged the Italian’s impressive rise but highlighted the challenge of maintaining top form over time. “Winning your first two Slams and becoming No. 1 is one thing, staying at that level for years is another,” he said.
With the retirements of Roger Federer, Andy Murray, and Rafael Nadal, Djokovic is the last of his generation still vying for the biggest titles. Former Wimbledon and U.S. Open champion Andy Murray has joined Djokovic’s coaching team, as Djokovic aims to extend his record with an 11th Australian Open title when the tournament kicks off on January 12, 2024.
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