Former world No. 1 predicts when Djokovic will officially retire

Approaching 39 next year, Djokovic openly admits it is difficult to beat the two young players dominating world tennis, Alcaraz (ATP No. 1) and Sinner (ATP No. 2), in the final rounds of Grand Slams. Fitness is also a big obstacle as he has repeatedly faced injury problems in 2025.

According to Stubbs, the 2026 Australian Open – where Djokovic has won 10 titles, an expanded record – may be the final stage in the glorious career of the Serbian player.

“I have a feeling the Australian Open will be the last Grand Slam he participates in,” Stubbs said on GB News. “I don’t think he wants to continue only to have to enter Roland Garros. Djokovic still plays well on all surfaces, but I don’t see him strong enough to beat the young opponents in five-set matches on clay and then at Wimbledon. For me, the Australian Open is a wonderful place to end his career, since it’s also where his Grand Slam journey started.”

Currently, Djokovic is aiming to win the Shanghai Masters for the fifth time in his career. In the opening match, he defeated Marin Cilic from Croatia and shared his happiness on social media: “Great to be back,” along with a celebration photo.

At the pre-tournament press conference, the 2024 Olympic champion affirmed he still has the drive to compete against Alcaraz and Sinner. “I’m still training very hard because I want to keep facing them directly at Grand Slams. If you’re not at 100% fitness against them, your game will be greatly affected,” Djokovic said.

“I know it’s really hard to beat them in five-set matches because I’m not as energetic as before. That’s a fact I must accept. I think at Masters 1000 tournaments, my chances of winning are still greater.”

Despite losses to top young players, Djokovic believes his performance is still commendable. Reaching the semifinals of all four Grand Slams this year, he says, proves remarkable consistency. “I’m a player accustomed to winning and have experienced all the glories in this sport, so I still want more,” Djokovic stressed.