‘What if I Never Win It?’ – Novak Djokovic Says He’s ‘Sick’ of 25th Grand Slam Talk After Wimbledon Exit

Ever since Novak Djokovic made history by clinching his 24th Grand Slam title at the 2023 US Open, there has been widespread anticipation over when he would win his record-extending 25th Major.

However, the Serb’s latest opportunity slipped away at the 2026 Wimbledon Championships, as he fell short against Jannik Sinner in the semifinals. Following the defeat, Djokovic made it clear that the relentless expectations surrounding his Grand Slam tally have become increasingly frustrating.

Novak Djokovic Explains Frustration Over 25th Grand Slam Expectations

After battling past No. 3 seed Felix Auger-Aliassime in a thrilling five-set quarterfinal, Djokovic faced an even tougher challenge against world No. 1 and defending champion Jannik Sinner, with a place in the Wimbledon final at stake. However, the Serb was unable to replicate his heroics as Sinner dominated the encounter to claim a 6-4, 6-4, 6-4 victory.

Speaking in his native Serbian during his post-match press conference, Djokovic firmly rejected the notion that winning a 25th Grand Slam title was his ultimate goal. He called out the media and certain people in his life for placing unnecessary emphasis on the milestone.

“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 stressed that the constant discussion was beginning to “annoy” him, arguing that it created the impression that his remarkable achievements were not enough.

“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, 400 weeks as number one is not enough but 1000 weeks is enough.”

Djokovic further explained why he was fed up with the talk of his potential 25th Grand Slam title, questioning whether his career would be considered a failure if he never won another Major.

“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.

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While Novak Djokovic is set to enjoy some time off before the North American hardcourt swing, Jannik Sinner will be focused on successfully defending his Wimbledon crown. The world No. 1 will lock horns with No. 2 seed Alexander Zverev in the blockbuster final, entering the contest with a 10-4 lead in their head-to-head record.