Novak Djokovic says winning another Grand Slam title remains his clearest competitive goal, but the 38-year-old Serbian is increasingly defining success in broader terms as he enters the later phase of one of the most decorated careers in tennis history.
Speaking to Vanity Fair Italy, the 24-time Grand Slam champion framed his current stage as one shaped by a balance between professional ambition and personal priorities, saying his motivation now extends well beyond results and recognition alone.
“Obviously, I’d like to win at least another Grand Slam title, stay healthy, and continue playing for years to come,” he said. “But there are so many other things I want to be involved in, to observe the changes taking place in tennis. I can’t wait to see what the future holds, and I’d like to see it as an active player too.”
Djokovic holds the men’s all-time record of 24 major singles titles, becoming the only man to win each of the four Grand Slams at least three times. A 25th title would extend that record further into territory no male player has previously reached.
The Serbian entered 2026 with limited scheduling, competing in only two tournaments. He reached the Australian Open final, his first major final since Wimbledon in 2024, before falling to Carlos Alcaraz in four sets. He then exited Indian Wells in the fourth round and subsequently withdrew from the Miami Open with a right shoulder injury, slipping to World No. 4 in the Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP) rankings after losing 605 ranking points.
Despite the setbacks, Djokovic is already looking ahead to the clay season. His priority for the coming months will be the French Open, where he is a three-time champion at Roland Garros.
Away from the court, Djokovic spoke candidly about his family and his aspirations beyond tennis. “I have so many plans and dreams, especially as a father. I want to be there for my children’s goals because I travel so much and I’m often away from them and my wife,” he said. He also signalled plans to pursue interests in wellness, longevity, and mental health after his playing days.
Reflecting on career highs, he pointed to his Olympic gold medal at the 2024 Paris Games as a moment he would relive above all others, adding: “Getting married and becoming a father twice are experiences I would repeat endlessly.”
Djokovic has previously stated his intention to continue competing until at least the Los Angeles Olympic Games in 2028, when he will be 41 years old.
