Novak Djokovic walked off Rod Laver Arena as the 2026 Australian Open runner-up. But it was Djokovic’s words after the match, not just the loss itself, that lingered long after the final point.
After a
fierce four-set battle with Carlos Alcaraz, the 38-year-old Serb left Melbourne having delivered a performance worthy of a champion, only to fall short in a 2-6, 6-2, 6-3, 7-5 defeat.
Djokovic started the final in vintage fashion, ripping winners and overwhelming Alcaraz to take the opening set 6-2. For a moment, a record-breaking 25th Grand Slam felt within reach. But as the match wore on, Alcaraz raised his level, flipping the momentum and claiming the next three sets to seal the title.
The defeat denied Djokovic another shot at immortality. But at the closing ceremony, the 24-time Grand Slam champion spoke with a tone that felt heavier than usual.
“God knows what happens tomorrow, let alone in 6 months or 12 months. It has been a great ride. I love you guys.”
Novak Djokovic after what could be his last time at the Australian Open ❤️ pic.twitter.com/XktOBYlKPD
— ESPN (@espn) February 1, 2026
“I didn’t think I would be standing at the closing ceremony of a Grand Slam again,” Djokovic said. “God knows what happens tomorrow, let alone six or 12 months. It has been a great ride. I love you guys.”
The comments sent a ripple through Rod Laver Arena, hinting that Djokovic’s time on the sport’s biggest stages may be nearing its end.
His runner-up speech was briefly delayed by fans chanting his name. Djokovic responded by praising Alcaraz’s achievement, calling it “historic” and “legendary,” before adding a telling joke about their future meetings.
“You’re so young… I’m sure we’ll be seeing each other many more times in the next 10 years,” he said, before pausing. “Not.”
Djokovic also paid tribute to longtime rival Rafael Nadal, who watched from the stands.
“It feels very weird to see you there and not here,” Djokovic said. “It’s been an honour to share the court with you.”
Despite the uncertainty, Djokovic showed he can still push the very best. He reached the final after edging past two-time defending champion Jannik Sinner and once again proved that, even at 38, he remains a force to be reckoned with.
Whether this was Djokovic’s last Australian Open remains unknown. But as he signed off in Melbourne with his trademark sportive nature and pride.
