Novak DjokovicEven after losing for the first time in the Australian Open final on February 1, his faith did not waver as he walked out of Rod Laver Arena. The 38-year-old Serbian lost 2-6, 6-2, 6-3, 7-5 to world number one Carlos Alcaraz, ending his perfect 10-0 record in the Melbourne final and costing him a record 25th Grand Slam title. Djokovic spoke immediately after the match, making it clear that his confidence in himself was still intact. “I always believed I could,” he said in his post-game media conference. “If I didn’t believe it, I wouldn’t be playing. I’m happy that I was able to beat Janik in five sets in the semi-finals and have a real battle with Carlos in four close games.” Djokovic burst through the opening set with vintage authority. But Alcaraz responded with power and relentless movement, breaking early in the second set and steadily taking control. The Spaniard eventually sealed his first Australian Open title and became the youngest player in the Open era to complete a career Grand Slam. “After an incredible start, I was disappointed with how I felt in the second and third games,” Djokovic admitted. “Of course, the feeling after losing is painful, but no matter what, I have to be satisfied with the result.” He also hinted at uncertainty about the future. “God knows what’s going to happen tomorrow, let alone six months or twelve months.” Still, hunger remains. “I have the belief, the confidence and the vision to win another Grand Slam anywhere,” he said. “It feels good not to be the favorite for a Grand Slam title.” For now, family comes first. “The best way to deal with anything after finishing a race is to be with my family … to go back and hug the people closest to me.” Failure may have come, but faith remains unaffected.
