Novak Djokovic, the 24-time Grand Slam champion and current world number six, has looked back on the defining moments of his illustrious career and revealed who he considers his toughest opponent. Speaking to Eurosport, the Serbian star reflected on two decades at the top of the game and the highlights that still stand out to him today.
Djokovic described lifting his first Wimbledon trophy in 2011 as a moment that remains unmatched in his career. “It was my dream tournament when I was young,” he said, ranking that victory even higher than his maiden Grand Slam win at the 2008 Australian Open, where he defeated Jo-Wilfried Tsonga.
Novak Djokovic’s Grand Slam Titles
- Australian Open: Winner (2008, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2015, 2016, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2023)
- French Open: Winner (2016, 2021, 2023)
- Wimbledon: Winner (2011, 2014, 2015, 2018, 2019, 2021, 2022)
- US Open: Winner (2011, 2015, 2018, 2023)
Beyond the Slams, Djokovic pointed to his Olympic gold medal at the Paris 2024 Games as a career-defining milestone. “A gold medal for my country last year would probably be the highlight of my entire career,” he said, describing the pride he felt achieving something he had chased for so long.
When asked who his toughest rival has been, Djokovic didn’t hesitate to mention the other two members of tennis’s legendary Big Three. “You probably know the names Federer and Nadal,” he joked. “I would say Nadal would be the one that probably stands out as my biggest opponent and biggest rival.”
Djokovic’s battles with Rafael Nadal have produced some of tennis’s greatest matches, including their unforgettable showdown in the 2012 Australian Open final and the marathon semi-final at Roland Garros in 2013.
Despite his incredible list of achievements, Djokovic says his focus remains on what lies ahead. “The best moment is the next winning moment,” he said, highlighting his mindset of staying hungry and motivated for each new challenge on the ATP Tour.
Retirement Not on the Cards
After losing to Jannik Sinner in the Wimbledon semi-finals, Djokovic made it clear he has no plans to retire any time soon. At 38, he still believes he can compete at the highest level and is already looking forward to returning to the All England Club next summer.
With 24 Grand Slam titles, an Olympic gold medal, and no signs of slowing down, Djokovic’s legendary career isn’t over yet. He has even set his sights on defending his Olympic title at the 2028 Games in Los Angeles—proving there are still more chapters to be written in his remarkable story.