Djokovic aims for 'at least one more time' at Wimbledon after Sinner defeat
Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Novak Djokovic expressed his desire to compete at Wimbledon "at least one more time" after his semifinal defeat to Jannik Sinner.
- The 39-year-old Serb acknowledged the tough loss but stated he still believes he can play at the highest level.
- Djokovic plans to regroup and focus on the upcoming US Open, aiming to prove his continued competitiveness among top players.
Novak Djokovic departed Wimbledon not with a trophy, but with a clear intention to return. Following his decisive semifinal loss to Jannik Sinner, the 39-year-old Serbian star expressed his ambition to compete at the prestigious tournament "at least one more time."
I would like to, at least one more time. Let's see.
Despite the straight-sets defeat, Djokovic maintained a positive outlook on his performance and longevity. "I would like to, at least one more time. Let's see," he told reporters, acknowledging the challenge of facing the next generation of players. Djokovic, who secured his 24th Grand Slam title at the US Open in 2023, emphasized that he still feels capable of competing at the highest echelons of the sport. "I'm proud of what I achieved three nights ago," he said, referring to his quarterfinal victory. "Proven to myself and others that I can still play at the highest level, and I have."
I'm proud of what I achieved three nights ago. Felix is number three, fourth player in the world. Proven to myself and others that I can still play at the highest level, and I have.
Djokovic reflected on the tournament as a positive experience, despite the disappointment of not reaching the final. He highlighted his fighting spirit and dedication throughout Wimbledon. "The tournament was positive in terms of the attitude on the court, the fighting spirit, the dedication. I mean, it's still there," he stated. He acknowledged that while he wasn't at his desired level during the semifinal, he is ready to move forward.
The tournament was positive in terms of the attitude on the court, the fighting spirit, the dedication. I mean, it's still there.
Looking ahead, Djokovic will shift his focus to the final Grand Slam of the year, the US Open. He reiterated that he plays because he genuinely wants to and believes he can still perform as a top-10 or top-5 player. "I don't have any pressure or no one is forcing me to play. I do it because I really want to and because I still can," he said. Meanwhile, Jannik Sinner, who defeated Djokovic, hailed the veteran as a "true inspiration" for his enduring high level of play.
I don't have any pressure or no one is forcing me to play. I do it because I really want to and because I still can.
Originally published by Khaleej Times in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.