Djokovic Remembered Rafa Nadal in the Long Match Against Sinner
Novak Djokovic made history once again at the Australian Open. The Serbian star reached his 11th Grand Slam final after defeating defending champion Jannik Sinner in an epic five-set battle, then delivered remarks that moved the tennis world.
Visibly exhausted after more than four hours of action on Rod Laver Arena, Djokovic recalled one of the most legendary matches of his career: the unforgettable 2012 Australian Open final against Rafael Nadal.
“I have no words right now. My God, it feels surreal. Playing for four hours made me think of Rafa in 2012, when we played for six,” Djokovic admitted while still on court.
At 38 years old, Djokovic once again defied time. He outlasted the world No. 2, snapped a five-match losing streak against Sinner, and proved he remains one of the sport’s defining figures.
The 24-time Grand Slam champion also showed respect for his Italian rival. “I thanked him at the net for letting me win at least one,” he joked before turning serious. “He deserves a big round of applause. The relationship we have is incredible, and this year has been one of the best atmospheres I’ve experienced in Australia.”
Djokovic recalled that he had already warned about how difficult it would be to compete against the new generation led by Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz. “Last year I said it would be very difficult, but not impossible. I had to play at a different level,” he explained.
The Serbian also commented on the other semifinal thriller, the marathon match between Carlos Alcaraz and Alexander Zverev, which lasted over five hours. “It was incredible. Carlos apologized for delaying my match and I told him I’m an older man and I need to go to bed early,” Djokovic joked, drawing laughter from the crowd.
With the Australian Open 2026 final now on the horizon, Djokovic closed the night with an emotional message: “I feel like I’ve already won with tonight’s match. Now I have to face the world No. 1. I hope I’ll have enough strength for Sunday. God will decide.”
