Age is just a number for Novak Djokovic, who battled back from the brink to beat Jannik Sinner 3-6, 6-3, 4-6, 4-6, 6-4 in the Australian Open 2026 semifinals, earning a blockbuster final appearance. The veteran, dogged by retirement speculation, turned the noise into motivation en route to chasing Slam number 25.
Fresh off the court, Djokovic addressed the media with trademark defiance. ‘Self-belief has never wavered,’ he stated firmly. ‘Skeptics abounded, with many experts pushing me towards retirement. Their doubt empowered me to rise higher.’
He gave credit where due, highlighting Sinner’s momentum from the last round’s walkover against an injured Musetti. ‘The road here was tough,’ Djokovic admitted. ‘In high-stakes Grand Slam ties, perfection isn’t always there—you grind for the win regardless.’
Tactical precision defined his approach. ‘Facing someone on a hot streak demands sharp preparation,’ he said. ‘I entered with total clarity on the game plan and executed it against Sinner’s world-class game.’
Sunday’s showdown with Carlos Alcaraz looms large. Djokovic hunts a record-extending 25th major, while Alcaraz dreams of his first Aussie title, a career Slam, and youngest-ever status. This generational duel could redefine tennis legacies.