Novak Djokovic hits back at journalist before Australian Open semi-final

Serbian tennis star Novak Djokovic has once again found himself in the spotlight, not just for his performance on the court but also for his strong words off it. After reaching the semi-final of the Australian Open 2026, Djokovic reacted sharply to a comment made by a journalist, saying he felt disrespected by the way his career was described.

Djokovic, one of the most successful players in tennis history, is set to face world number two Jannik Sinner in the semi-final on January 30. The match is expected to be a tough challenge, but before stepping onto the court, Djokovic made headlines for firmly defending his achievements and legacy.

Djokovic reacts strongly to journalist’s remark

After his quarter-final match against Lorenzo Musetti, Djokovic was speaking to the media. During the interaction, a journalist made a comment comparing Djokovic’s current situation to his early career. The reporter said that Djokovic once chased legends like Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal, and now he is chasing younger stars such as Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz.

The comment did not go down well with the Serbian champion. Djokovic immediately questioned the idea that he is always the one chasing others. He asked the journalist what exactly was meant by that statement and whether his own achievements were being ignored.

Djokovic pointed out that he has won 24 Grand Slam titles, more than any other male tennis player in history. He said that such an achievement deserves recognition and should not be overlooked. When the journalist responded by mentioning his Grand Slam wins, Djokovic replied that it was important to say that clearly and openly.

The 38-year-old tennis star then explained why the comment bothered him. He said that the remark ignored a long and important period in his career. According to Djokovic, there were many years between his early days and the present where he dominated men’s tennis and consistently won major titles.

Djokovic said that during that time, he was not chasing anyone. Instead, other players were chasing him. He described the comment as disrespectful because it skipped over nearly 15 years of success where he was the top player in the world. He made it clear that while he respects young players like Sinner and Alcaraz, his own journey and achievements should not be reduced or forgotten.

His response showed both confidence and frustration. Djokovic has often spoken about feeling underestimated despite his record-breaking success, and this moment appeared to reflect that ongoing feeling.

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Focus shifts to semi-final against Sinner

Despite the media exchange, Djokovic’s main focus now is his upcoming semi-final match against Jannik Sinner. Djokovic has reached yet another Grand Slam semi-final, proving that age has not slowed him down. Thanks to back-to-back walkovers and a strong performance against Musetti, he has booked his place in the last four at Melbourne.

The semi-final will not be easy. Jannik Sinner has been in excellent form throughout the tournament. The Italian star has dominated his opponents and looks confident and sharp on the court. Sinner has also won the Australian Open for the past two years and is now aiming for a third straight title, which would be a remarkable achievement.

Many experts believe that Djokovic faces a tough challenge against Sinner. The younger player’s speed, power, and consistency could test the Serbian veteran. However, Djokovic’s experience, mental strength, and ability to perform in big matches cannot be ignored.

Djokovic has a long history of rising to the occasion in Grand Slam tournaments. He is known for handling pressure well and for finding ways to win even when the odds seem against him. His supporters believe that his hunger for success and pride in his legacy will drive him to give his best performance.

For Djokovic, this match is about more than just reaching another final. It is also about proving that he still belongs at the very top of the sport. Facing a player like Sinner, who represents the new generation of tennis stars, gives Djokovic another chance to show that he remains a force to be reckoned with.

At the same time, Djokovic has shown respect for Sinner and Alcaraz as talented players who are shaping the future of tennis. His frustration was not about competition but about recognition. He wants his long years of dominance and hard-earned success to be acknowledged properly.

As the Australian Open 2026 semi-final approaches, all eyes will be on Djokovic and Sinner. Fans around the world are eager to see whether the veteran champion can stop Sinner’s winning run or if the Italian star will move one step closer to a historic third straight title.

Whatever the result, Djokovic’s response to the journalist has once again highlighted his strong personality and deep pride in his career. It also reminds the tennis world that legends like him are not ready to fade quietly and still demand respect for what they have achieved over the years.