“Facing Carlos always brings out your best tennis”
Novak Djokovic spoke with honesty and perspective in his post-match press conference, describing Carlos Alcaraz as one of the best players he has ever faced and a rival who consistently forces him to play at his highest level.
Djokovic said that competing against Alcaraz is always a pleasure, even in defeat, because of the quality and intensity the Spaniard brings to the court. He acknowledged that after playing his best tennis for a set and a half, the momentum shifted and Alcaraz ultimately deserved the victory.
Belief remains strong despite disappointment
Asked about whether the tournament reinforced his belief that he can still compete at the highest level, Djokovic was clear: belief has never been an issue.
He pointed to his five-set victory over Jannik Sinner and the competitive nature of the final as proof that he can still challenge the very best. While he admitted disappointment with how he felt physically and energetically during parts of the match, Djokovic emphasized that reaching the final remains a significant achievement.
“After a loss, it’s a bitter feeling,” he said, “but overall, I have to be content with this result.”
Refusing excuses and crediting the champion
Djokovic made it clear that he would not discuss any physical or health-related issues following the match, explaining that he never wants to take credit away from the winner or sound as though he is making excuses.
Instead, he reiterated that Alcaraz was the deserved champion and chose to focus on the tennis itself rather than anything happening behind the scenes.
A first set at the highest level, followed by a sudden shift
Reflecting on the match itself, Djokovic described the opening set as one of the best he has played in the past couple of years. He admitted that after winning the first set, he genuinely believed he could win the final.
However, he acknowledged Alcaraz’s ability to adjust tactically and raise his level. Djokovic said his own energy and level dropped sharply over a short period, before briefly returning midway through the fourth set when he tried to involve the crowd.
Ultimately, he pointed to missed opportunities and key forehand errors at crucial moments as the turning point.
Progress, not satisfaction, defines the bigger picture
Looking at the tournament as a whole, Djokovic noted that this run represented progress compared to the previous year. He acknowledged that circumstances during the middle of the tournament helped him stay physically fresh, and he expressed gratitude for that fortune.
Still, he made it clear that progress alone is not enough.
“It’s encouraging,” he said, “but not enough for me. I’m going to keep pushing and see if I get another chance.”
Lower expectations, unchanged ambition
Djokovic addressed the contrast between his enduring belief and his comment on court about not expecting to return to a Grand Slam final ceremony.
He explained that while his confidence and ambition remain intact, he has deliberately lowered expectations in recent years to reduce pressure and unnecessary stress. He admitted that not always being the favorite has helped him find extra motivation in the later rounds of Grand Slams.
Despite the loss, he took pride in defeating Sinner — the defending champion — and acknowledged the emotional difficulty of speaking so soon after losing a final.
Learning from setbacks and leaning on family
When asked how he processes setbacks mentally, Djokovic said experience has taught him how to manage both victories and defeats.
He explained that the intensity of disappointment fades with time, and that the best way for him to recover emotionally is to be with his family.
“For me, the only thing I want right now is to go back and hug my closest ones,” he said.
Praise for Alcaraz and the next generation
Djokovic closed the press conference by offering high praise for Alcaraz, calling his achievements at just 22 years old “super impressive” and describing him as a complete player with exceptional physical, mental, and technical qualities.
He highlighted Alcaraz’s constant desire to innovate and improve, saying that this mindset is essential for a champion. Djokovic also noted that the future of the sport will likely be shaped by rivalries between players like Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner.
“He has everything,” Djokovic said. “And everything is possible for him.”
👉For full match context and post-final reactions, see our Day Preview 15.
👉A detailed breakdown of the final is available in our match analysis.