New Delhi: Novak Djokovic’s wait for a record-breaking 25th Grand Slam title will continue after his Wimbledon campaign ended with a straight-sets defeat
to defending champion Jannik Sinner. The Serbian great went down 6-4, 6-4, 6-4 in the semi-finals but it was his honest response after the match that became the biggest talking point.
Djokovic had produced a remarkable performance to reach the last four, battling past Felix Auger-Aliassime in a five-set quarter-final that became the longest Wimbledon match of his career. However, he was unable to match Sinner’s level as the World No. 1 controlled the contest from start to finish.
After the loss, the Serbian addressed the constant discussion surrounding his pursuit of a 25th Grand Slam title, admitting the expectations have started to weigh on him.
Djokovic says focus has become too much
Speaking during his post-match press conference, Djokovic said winning another Major is important but insisted it is not the only thing that defines his career.
“Not the ultimate goal. It’s very important for you to know – a lot of people burden me, and people who are in my, let’s say, second circle of closeness, and the media. I understand that people really want me to win that 25, and I want to but that’s not the ultimate goal,” he said.
The 39-year-old explained that the constant attention on one milestone makes it feel as though everything he has already achieved is somehow not enough.
Novak Djokovic says for 99% of the players, reaching a Grand Slam final and a Grand Slam semifinal so far this year would be a very good result, but for him, it’s not enough
“At this point in your career, does it still remain about winning titles? Or can you leave a tournament… pic.twitter.com/qjuUQzYUWz
— The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) July 10, 2026
“Let’s put things into perspective, folks. It really started to annoy me a little because, somehow, it’s like I’m not enough for myself, and then others put extra weight on me,” Djokovic said. “As if 24 is not enough but 25 is enough, 100 tournaments is not enough but 110 is enough.”
Looking beyond…
Djokovic also questioned why so much importance is placed on whether he wins another Grand Slam, despite already owning one of the greatest records in tennis history.
“Let’s celebrate and rejoice for what has been achieved and be a little more modest, realistic and grateful in that sense. That’s my reminder to myself because I’m really sick of talking about when 25 will be… and what if it never comes? And now what? Is it then a failed career?” he added.
The former World No. 1 is expected to take a short break before returning for the North American hard-court season. Meanwhile, Sinner has moved into the Wimbledon final, where he will face Alexander Zverev as he bids to successfully defend his title.
