Full Breakdown
Novak Djokovic Says He Still Has “Something to Prove” as He Prepares for the U.S. Open
7/18/2026, 12:41:58 PM
Current Focus and Physical Reality
Novak Djokovic, the record-holding 24-Grand Slam champion, told “CBS Mornings” that, despite being 39, he remains driven to improve and to compete against younger opponents. He acknowledged that his body “responds differently” after more than two decades at the sport’s highest level, noting the “wear and tear” that limits his recovery between matches. The Serbian star said his immediate target is the U.S. Open in New York, where he hopes to extract every possible edge to stay elite.
Career Milestones and Recent Wimbledon Outcome
Djokovic’s recent Wimbledon campaign ended in the semifinals, where he was defeated by eventual champion Jannik Sinner after a marathon five-hour-plus quarterfinal win over Félix Auger Aliassime. The loss underscored the physical toll of a 20-plus-year career, yet he emphasized that the tournament’s atmosphere and fan appreciation continue to motivate him.
Family Influence and Personal Motivation
Djokovic traced his love of tennis to a childhood purchase of a racket, describing the sport as a “safe space” amid the wars and sanctions that scarred 1990s Serbia. He credited his wife, children, and extended family for enabling his pursuit of the game, while also acknowledging the personal sacrifices involved: “I leave them, the absence, missing out on some important dates and events in their life … it’s hard.”
Official Summary of Djokovic’s Statements
In the interview, Djokovic framed his competition as primarily internal—“Myself, always”—and highlighted a relentless drive to outdo his prior self. He explained that aging demands meticulous attention to recovery and marginal gains, yet the energy of crowds and global respect sustain his enthusiasm. Djokovic also praised Serena Williams’s return to Wimbledon, calling it “already epic” and urging celebration of her achievements regardless of outcomes.
Verbatim Quotes
- “there's always something to prove” — Novak Djokovic
- “I can always be better than I was yesterday,” — Novak Djokovic
- “You're just … trying to take every percentage of extra edge that I can get to be able to still compete at an elite level with young guys,” — Novak Djokovic
- “The body is responding differently and that's just biology … the wear and tear, the 20-plus years on the highest level, it's just taking its toll,” — Novak Djokovic
- “It doesn't matter if she wins or loses, it's already epic," Djokovic said.” — Novak Djokovic (on Serena Williams)
