Before the Australian Open, John McEnroe said that in Novak Djokovic's "heart of hearts" that the Serb didn't believe he could win a Grand Slam again. The implication was that Djokovic didn't think he could beat Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz on the way to another Grand Slam victory. The Serb disputes McEnroe's theory, though.
He would have to, of course. He has pointed out on several occasions that he wouldn't keep playing if he didn't believe he could win. Why would anyone? Assuming a loss is forthcoming is, in itself, defeating. To have that presumption come to fruition is even more difficult mentally.
Still, in his post-Australian Open final press conference, the 24-time major winner did reset his view of his standing in men's tennis, even after beating Sinner in the semifinals in Melbourne and then losing in four sets to Alcaraz in the final. Djokovic still thinks he can win, or he wouldn't be playing, but he also made a confession.
Novak Djokovic sets the record straight after losing in the 2026 Australian Open final
Djokovic said, "I have belief, confidence, and vision to win another slam, to win anywhere where I play, but I did not expect it. That's different. I lowered my expectations the last couple of years, which also I think allows me to be able to let go of some of that unnecessary, additional stress. There's always tension, stress, (and) pressure. I just don't want to be overwhelmed by it. It's also feels good a little bit not always being the main favorite to win slams."
The all-time great did say he was proud of beating Sinner in the semis, but that the press conference was being held 10 minutes after he lost the final, so he was a bit bitter. This, of course, would be the same for any high-end athlete who has to talk about what happened so soon after a loss.
That Novak Djokovic was able to maintain his poise and deliver thoughtful answers without sounding bitter speaks volumes about him as a person. Some might disagree with some of his personal views, such as the COVID-19 vaccine, but he has always handled himself with class after a match.
He doesn't speak about whatever ailments or injuries he might be suffering from, but instead gives credit to his opponent. Djokovic understands that complaining about his injuries only makes it appear that he is coming up with excuses when he isn't.
Is Novak Djokovic going to win another major? Maybe not, but unlike what John McEnroe said about Djokovic's belief in himself, the Serb does think he can still win. He just doesn't expect to.