Defeated by Alcaraz, Djokovic leaves retirement possibility open

Novak Djokovic was on the verge of claiming his 25th Grand Slam title but fell short against a brilliant Carlos Alcaraz.

Novak Djokovic finishes Australian Open as runner-upraising major questions about his career: does he still have the time and physical ability to reach the 25th Grand Slam milestone — an absolute benchmark in tennis history — and is Melbourne the place where he will say goodbye?

Losing 6-2, 2-6, 3-6, 5-7 to Carlos Alcaraz in the final on the evening of February 1 (Vietnam time) not only ended Djokovic’s quest for an 11th Australian Open title but also marked the first time he lost a final at this tournament. At 38 years old, the “king” of Rod Laver Arena could not withstand the youth, speed, and consistency of his exceptional younger rival.

After the match, Nole’s speech silenced the Melbourne crowd. He admitted he had prepared two speeches — one for victory and one for defeat — and his words carried the tone of a farewell.

“Only God knows what tomorrow will bring, let alone six or twelve months from now,”Djokovic said. “It has been an amazing journey. I love you all.”His hint that he might not return to the Australian Open in the future fueled speculation about possible retirement.

Djokovic previously had a somewhat tense relationship with the Melbourne crowd, but this time he emphasized the support he received.

“In the last few matches, you gave me something I had never experienced in Australia — so much love and optimism.”he shared, as if closing an important chapter in his career.

Djokovic’s 24th Grand Slam title, won at the 2023 US Open, put him on par with legend Margaret Court. However, age, injuries, and the strong rise of Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner have made the path to a 25th title increasingly difficult. Before this final, the Serbian player even admitted he did not expect to reach another Grand Slam final.

Nevertheless, Djokovic insists he has not given up. “I have always believed I could. Otherwise, I wouldn’t be competing.”the Grand Slam record-holder said. But leaving Melbourne Park, where he has dominated for over a decade, Nole is fully aware that time is no longer on his side — and every upcoming tournament could carry the weight of a farewell.