Djokovic Stays in the Fight Against Alcaraz and Sinner, No Matter the Score
2 octobre 2025
Rivalry and Resolve
Novak Djokovic remains locked in a cross-generational duel with Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner as he returns to action ahead of the Shanghai Masters. The Serbian legend has picked up big wins and big losses in a year where the younger duo have carried most of the Grand Slam spotlight. Alcaraz and Sinner have split the eight major titles between them since Djokovic's 2023 US Open triumph, but the 38-year-old has also logged memorable moments, including a victory over Alcaraz for Olympic gold in Paris 2024 and beating Sinner in the climactic match of the 2023 Nitto ATP Finals.
Nevertheless, Djokovic has endured a challenging season. He has fallen to Sinner in the semifinals at Roland Garros and Wimbledon, and to Alcaraz in the same round at the US Open. Ahead of Shanghai, he plays his first match since that New York setback, opening against Marin Cilic and may meet Sinner in the semifinals, depending on the draw. Sinner leads their head-to-head 6-4, with the last five meetings dating back to Turin 2023 going to Sinner, but Djokovic remains unfazed and focused on improvement.
Reasons to keep going
Djokovic explained that playing big matches and sometimes losing to the world's best is not ideal, but it does not deter him from continuing. He emphasizes giving his best under current circumstances to challenge the field and to see how far he can go in every event.
He noted that his majors have shown his high level and consistency, and while there remains a competitive urge to win, there are other motivations. He mentioned that his family is a major source of inspiration and support, with his son Stefan, daughter Tara, and wife Jelena often in the stands, Tara's Wimbledon celebrations being a memorable moment.
He added that his children are involved in tennis and often travel with him to China, though schooling makes it complex; still their passion is clear.
He underscored that his family is his biggest support in and out of the arena; their presence is a powerful source of motivation.
Djokovic will not be joined by his family in Shanghai; he has four titles at the event and first played there in 2009. He enjoys trips to China and sees Shanghai as an important platform to promote tennis, especially in Asia, and China's large population and enthusiasm for racquet sports.
His 2025 record stands at 31-10; he already claimed his 100th tour title earlier this year in Geneva. The 38-year-old sits fourth in the direct Turin race and remains well-placed for the season-ending finals in November.
Tennis promotion and culture
Djokovic remains a central figure in cross-generational rivalries and a sport with global reach. He stresses that the journey matters as much as the trophies and that promoting tennis to younger audiences in Asia remains a priority.
When the ball flies and the crowd roars, Djokovic comes across as a measured veteran with a knack for making the most of every moment. If motivation were a subscription, Djokovic would offer a lifetime plan where every match comes with a free upgrade. If smiles translated to trophies, his family would be the real champions.
Punchline time: If motivation were a subscription, Djokovic would offer a lifetime plan—every match comes with a free upgrade. Punchline two: The only thing sharper than his returns might be the look on his kid's faces when he wins—family business, folks, family business.
