Spanish media editor writes: Djokovic has silenced his critics

While Alcaraz and Sinner have become the leading forces in men's tennis today, dominating Grand Slam championships for two straight years, one resilient figure remains opposing them — the 38-year-old Djokovic.

Following the conclusion of this year's Australian Open men's singles final, José Morón, editor of PuntoDBreak, expressed: "I want to give special thanks to Novak.During this tournament, he has silenced many doubters. Although 2025 may not be his peak year in terms of titles and achievements, he remains the only player capable of challenging the dominance of Alcaraz and Sinner."

This seemingly simple appraisal carries deep meaning. Looking at today's tennis scene, whether it is Medvedev, Zverev, Rune, or Ruud, they all struggle when facing Alcaraz and Sinner.Only Djokovic, this nearly 40-year-old veteran, can still pose real threats to them in crucial matches. As the editor said: "While other young players lack confidence and conviction on tour, fail to find answers against Alcaraz and Sinner, and in some cases lack the effort and time to catch up (let alone surpass) them, the 38-year-old has managed to do so.

For a player who already holds 24 Grand Slam titles, has completed the Career Golden Masters, and set the record for most weeks at world number one, the late stage of a career is often a time to enjoy playing and receive tributes.However, Djokovic has chosen a different path. As José Morón marvels: "A man who has won every honor and needs to prove nothing to anyone still sets himself the challenge of competing against the likes of Yannick and Carlos. Imagine what it would be like if he truly came close to victory."

Before the 2026 season, Djokovic undertook targeted physical conditioning improvements. He adjusted his training regimen, enhanced his mobility, and optimized recovery strategies. His progress was evident at this year's Australian Open.He not only defeated Sinner but nearly dragged Alcaraz into a deciding set. Although he did not win in the end, the competitive level he displayed was astonishing.

The contrast between contemporary young players and Djokovic is striking. Many young athletes show a lack of confidence and belief on tour, fail to find solutions against Alcaraz and Sinner, and sometimes lack the dedication and time needed to close the gap.Yet, the 38-year-old Djokovic demonstrates through his actions what true professionalism and competitive spirit mean.

His presence acts as a mirror reflecting common issues among the new generation in tennis: while their skills might be excellent, their mental toughness, tactical intelligence, and match experience remain insufficient; their talent may be outstanding, but their hunger for victory and drive for self-improvement are not strong enough.

José Morón bluntly points out this phenomenon and uses Djokovic as a meaningful contrast.

"It's truly incredible. Hats off to him! Without Djokovic, this tournament would have been dull. We should be grateful for every event and match he participates in. His very presence is a gift." This praise transcends mere match results and elevates to a tribute to the spirit of tennis.

Djokovic's continued participation is not just an extension of his career but a contribution to the entire tennis world. He brings high-quality matches, legendary confrontations with the new generation, and the historical continuity that tennis needs.

In an increasingly commercialized sports world, Djokovic's presence reminds us that some values go beyond winning and losing, and some perseverance is meaningful in itself.

Perhaps the most insightful part of José Morón's article is his forecast of Djokovic's historical status: "Many may not realize it now, but over time, people will come to appreciate the extraordinary significance of his brilliant performances throughout the years — how precious it is to have witnessed his era in tennis."

Currently, people often praise the new generation while viewing Djokovic as a figure of the past era. However, time will deliver a fair judgment.

When Alcaraz and Sinner’s careers mature, people will more clearly recognize how great Djokovic was to stand up to them; when tennis undergoes another generational change, people will cherish Djokovic even more as a player who maintained competitiveness across eras.

Djokovic's value lies not only in the number of titles he has won but also in the length and quality of his career, and in his ability to adapt and compete against opponents from different generations.

After the match with Alcaraz, a veteran journalist wrote on social media: "What we are witnessing is not the decline of a player but a legend redefining what is possible in the later stages of a career."This comment perhaps best summarizes Djokovic's current significance.

While pursuing more championship records, he is actually undertaking a deeper exploration: how an athlete can continue pushing limits by competing with the new generation despite aging.

Tennis history has never lacked talent, but players like Djokovic who can still challenge top young players late in their careers are rare. His existence itself is an inspiration: true greatness lies not only in conquering an era but also in transcending time’s limits.(Source: Tennis Home Author: Mei)