Djokovic: "I still believe I can beat them all, otherwise, I wouldn't be here"

Raquel Bermúdez Rodríguez | 24 Jan 2026 | 14.00

Djokovic: "I keep believing that I can beat them all, if not, I wouldn't be here." Photo: Getty

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Novak Djokovic continues his strong performance in this 2026 Australian Open, where he has not dropped a single set so far, reaching the round of 16. The Serbian player showcased a high level against Botic Van de Zandschulp, who didn't make it easy for him during those three sets.

Minutes after securing this new victory in Melbourne, Novak Djokovic went to the press conference to extensively discuss his feelings on the court, analyze his role in the current landscape dominated by Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner, and share some kind words about Stan Wawrinka.

"I'm glad to overcome this challenge in straight sets, especially winning that third set was mentally important for me to keep moving forward. Honestly, I try not to think about managing energy on the court in terms of saving or conserving anything for the later rounds because I just don't believe that's the right mindset. It's essential to give your best on the given day to beat the opponent. I try to do it as efficiently as possible, and I have won nine out of nine sets so far, so I couldn't ask for more.

Today, I had a very good test. I was playing aggressively and well, and I think I was moving superbly. There's always something going on with my body, but I think, overall, I feel better than ever. I can't predict the future. I don't know how things will unfold from today, but I'm doing everything I can. I didn't train yesterday, not between the first and second rounds. I had two days, skipped training on one, did it on the second. And now, I didn't train between the second and third round because obviously, I'm trying to be strategic, discussing with my team about what's most important," stated Novak Djokovic in the press conference.

Novak Djokovic's Level and his Role against Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner in the 2026 Australian Open

"Regarding age, I believe that on a specific day, when I feel good physically and mentally, when I play well, I can challenge anyone, and I still believe I can beat them all. If not, I wouldn't be here. I assure you, I wouldn't be here, for sure, but I also know that if I have to play against Sinner, it would be in the semifinals. The further I go in the tournament, the more energy I will spend, and I don't know how my body will react. Last year, I didn't feel well playing against them, against him and Alcaraz in the later stages, but I hope that changes."

Novak Djokovic on Stan Wawrinka

"I take pride in calling him a friend and a rival, someone who has undoubtedly inspired me, undoubtedly, with his longevity and commitment to tennis. He is passionate. Just watching him fight for almost four hours in his last match, the second round, and how he turned it around, is a testament to his career and what he brought to the court. His legacy will undoubtedly endure in the younger generations who admire him.

He is a great champion on and off the court, a very nice guy. He did everything right and deserved all the applause in this tournament. I think it has been a great farewell from the Australian Open for him, with the support of the public and everything that has happened on the court, his playing style, and especially that second-round match. When he leaves, tennis will lose a great player and a great person."