Novak Djokovic labeled his defeat to Jannik Sinner at the 2024 Australian Open as one of his poorest Grand Slam performances, expressing disappointment in his quest for an 11th Melbourne title. Despite acknowledging Sinner’s skill, Djokovic was visibly stunned by his own subpar performance on the tennis court.
“It is not a very pleasant feeling playing this way,” said Djokovic, 36
“But at the same time, credit to [Sinner] for doing everything better than me in every aspect of the game.”
“I want to congratulate Sinner for playing a great match and a great tournament so far. He’s deservedly in the final. He outplayed me completely,” added Djokovic.
“I was shocked with my level – in a bad way. There was not much I was doing right in the first two sets.
“I guess this is one of the worst Grand Slam matches I’ve ever played.”
Despite the disappointment following his recent defeat, Novak Djokovic remains optimistic about the remainder of the tennis season, expressing a determination to overcome the setback in due course.
“I still hold optimistic expectations for the upcoming Slams, the Olympics, and the various tournaments on my schedule. This setback at the Australian Open is just a minor chapter in the larger narrative of the season,” Djokovic emphasized.
Reflecting on his unparalleled success in previous seasons, the Serbian star acknowledged the uncharacteristic nature of his early exit. “Historically, commencing my campaigns with a Grand Slam victory, avoiding losses in the semis or finals at the Australian Open, has been a source of immense satisfaction for me.”
He candidly admitted, “This time, however, it’s a departure from the norm. The tournament didn’t align with my usual standard, and my performance fell short of the levels I typically set for myself.”
Undeterred, Djokovic maintained a resilient outlook, stating, “It is what it is. Every season presents its unique challenges, and while this one has started differently, I’m committed to regaining my stride. The competitive journey is long, and I remain focused on the opportunities ahead.”
In contemplating the upcoming events, Djokovic conveyed a sense of unwavering determination. “I look forward to turning the page and showcasing my best on the court. The disappointment at the Australian Open is a motivator, propelling me to elevate my game and set new benchmarks for the remainder of the season.”
As Djokovic navigates through this unexpected turn, he carries with him the resilience and conviction that have defined his illustrious tennis career.
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