Novak Djokovic has admitted that Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz are currently playing at a higher level, but insists he still believes he can beat anyone when he’s at his best.

Novak Djokovic is preparing for another campaign at the Australian Open, where he will aim to extend his record of 10 titles in Melbourne. Despite the rise of the next generation, Djokovic says his belief and motivation remain as strong as ever.

Speaking ahead of the first major of the year, the Serbian reflected on his form, self-confidence, and how he views his two biggest rivals heading into the 2026 season.

Novak Djokovic praises Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner’s current form

Novak Djokovic said both Alcaraz and Sinner have set a new standard in men’s tennis over the past few years.

He acknowledged that the pair are currently leading the field, but made it clear that he still backs himself against any opponent.

“I understand Sinner and Alcaraz are playing on a different level right now from everybody else. That’s a fact,” Djokovic said. “But that doesn’t mean nobody else has a chance. I like my chances always.”

Sinner and Alcaraz have both defeated Djokovic in grand slam tournaments — Sinner in the 2025 Wimbledon semi-finals and Alcaraz in the 2023 Wimbledon final.

Still, Djokovic said he’s focused on adapting and finding ways to match their intensity in the Australian Open.

Novak Djokovic: ‘I still believe I can beat anybody’

Looking ahead to Melbourne, Novak Djokovic said his mindset hasn’t changed. The 38-year-old believes that when healthy and fully prepared, he can still compete with and defeat the best players in the world.

“I had a great win against Carlos in the quarters last year. I know that when I’m healthy, when I’m able to put all the pieces together on a given day, I feel like I can beat anybody. If I don’t have that self-belief and confidence in myself, I wouldn’t be here. I still have the drive.”

Djokovic will begin his 2026 season once again as one of the favourites at the Australian Open ahead of his first-round match against Pedro Martinez.

While he recognises that the field has grown stronger, he remains certain that his experience and belief will keep him in contention for another title.

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