Novak Djokovic is searching for a 25th Grand Slam singles title; one that would set him apart from Margaret Court.
Djokovic reached the semi-finals at all four Grand Slams in 2025, but struggled to overcome Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner.
Most recently, Djokovic was defeated in the US Open semi-finals by Alcaraz: 6-4, 7-6, 6-2.
Greg Rusedski has backed Djokovic to contend for Grand Slam titles this year. However, Pat Cash believes Djokovic will not win another Slam, despite the Serb being ranked fourth on the ATP Tour.
What does Novak Djokovic need to change to win a 25th Grand Slam title?
Djokovic’s chances of winning a 25th Slam are fading, and Tim Henman has noted the key problem Djokovic will have to contend with in 2026.
Tim Henman says the physical demands of Grand Slams will be an ‘even bigger’ issue for Novak Djokovic in 2026
Novak Djokovic is in the twilight of his career, and despite being in incredible physical shape, he is not getting any younger.
The Serbian superstar struggled with the physical side of the game on multiple occasions throughout 2025, most notably during the Australian Open – where he was forced to retire from his semi-final contest against Alexander Zverev due to a hamstring injury.
Tim Henman, the former British number one, believes these issues may arise once again this year.
Henman told TNT Sports: “I don’t have a question mark over his ability. His tennis game is incredible, and it really will always be incredible.
“But when you talk about the Grand Slam events, best of five sets, and you reflect on the way he played last year, to make four semi-finals was an unbelievable achievement.
“But did his tennis game let him down, or was it the physical demands? It was the physical demands, and as he’s now a year older. I just think that issue is going to be even bigger than it was in 2025.
“I’ll be interested to see his tennis level, to see whether it’s still at that height. But for me, the challenge is all physical. It’s not technical or mental.”
Novak Djokovic would be the undisputed GOAT if he won Grand Slam number 25 – could anyone argue otherwise?
Novak Djokovic should not be underestimated
Henman is far from incorrect. Novak Djokovic’s physical health is a major concern heading into Grand Slam events this year.
However, there can be no doubting that Djokovic still possesses the ability to win a Grand Slam title.
His record at Slams in 2025 proved one thing in particular: Djokovic remains a serious contender for Grand Slam titles.
His best opportunity of winning a 25th Slam is at the Australian Open; a tournament he has won on 10 occasions previously.
If Djokovic were to capture a 25th Grand Slam title in Melbourne, he would be the oldest Grand Slam singles champion in men’s tennis history.
The current record holder is Ken Rosewall, who won the 1972 Australian Open while aged 37 years.
