Novak Djokovic's candid admission after losing to Carlos Alcaraz in US Open semis: ‘These guys are just too…’

By Admin

06 Sep, 2025

Novak Djokovic, widely hailed as one of the greatest tennis players of all time, has admitted that age and the rise of a new generation are proving to be formidable challenges in his quest for a record-breaking 25th Grand Slam. The Serbian star’s straight-set defeat to Carlos Alcaraz in the US Open semifinals on Friday was not just another loss, but a moment of reflection about where he stands in the twilight of his career.

Djokovic Struggles Against the New Guard

Djokovic has consistently reached the final four in major tournaments this season, but a recurring roadblock has appeared in the form of Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner. The 38-year-old lost the semifinals at Roland Garros and Wimbledon to Sinner, before bowing out in New York against Alcaraz with a 6-4, 7-6, 6-2 defeat. Earlier this year, he also retired mid-match against Alexander Zverev at the Australian Open.

Acknowledging the shift in tennis dynamics, Djokovic said in his press conference:
“I think you’re right, I lost three out of four slams in semis against these guys, so they’re just too good, playing at a high level.”

A Rare Admission from the King of Endurance

Known for his incredible stamina and ability to outlast opponents in marathon matches, Djokovic openly admitted he could not sustain Alcaraz’s pace deep into their semifinal battle.
“Unfortunately I ran out of gas after the second set. I think I had enough energy to battle him and keep with his rhythm for two sets, but after that I was out and he kept going,” he said.

Such words are startling from a man who once thrived in five-setters, but they underline the reality of competing at 38 against players a decade and a half younger.

Best of Five Becoming a Challenge

Djokovic admitted that the longer format of Grand Slams is becoming increasingly difficult against rising stars.
“It’s kind of what I felt this year even with Jannik. Yeah, best of five makes it very very difficult for me to play with them, particularly if it’s the end stages of the grand slam,” he remarked.

While Djokovic continues to dominate most of the tour and reach the semifinals regularly, it is clear that the final hurdle is becoming harder to overcome.

Eyes on the Australian Open 2026

Despite the setback, Djokovic remains hopeful. He has historically thrived at the Australian Open, his most successful Slam, and that may present the best opportunity for him to clinch the elusive 25th title. His success against Alcaraz earlier this year in Melbourne, albeit in the quarterfinals, proves he can still outplay the younger generation when fresh.

However, with Alcaraz chasing a career Grand Slam and Sinner aiming for a third consecutive Melbourne crown, the challenge remains daunting.

The Reality of Transition

Djokovic’s candid remarks highlight a larger truth in sport   even the greatest champions must one day face the inevitability of age. For Djokovic, the determination to keep fighting is undimmed, but he now finds himself navigating a tennis landscape where youth and intensity may finally be catching up to him.