Australian Open 2026: Novak Djokovic tries to relieve himself of pressure as he chases 25th Grand Slam title

Novak Djokovic says he doesn’t think the upcoming Australian Open is “now or never” as he hopes to win an all-time solo record 25th Grand Slam title.

Djokovic, 38, has 24 major victories with Australia’s Margaret Court since her last victory at the 2023 US Open.

Unsurprisingly, the Serb has shown signs of decline in recent years but still managed to reach the semi-finals of all four Grand Slams last year.

Given that he has made a men’s record 10 appearances in Melbourne and has plenty of recovery time in the first major of the season, the consensus is that the Australian Open represents his best chance of reaching the elusive record-breaking title.

“There’s been a lot of talk about the 25th, but I’m trying to focus myself on what I’ve achieved, not what I probably will achieve,” said Djokovic, who is seeded fourth at Melbourne Park.

“I hope it gets to that point [winning 25]But 24 is not a bad number either. “I have to appreciate that and remind myself of the amazing career I’ve had.”

Djokovic has never hidden his desire to win more dates, but he is now looking to take some of the “unnecessary” pressure he has put on himself to get past Court.

He will begin his latest bid against Spaniard Pedro Martinez on Monday night at Rod Laver Arena.

“I don’t think it’s necessary to go too far in terms of a make-it-or-break-it or now-or-never mentality,” said Djokovic, who aims to become the oldest Grand Slam men’s champion of the Open Era.

“And that doesn’t allow me to succeed and do my best.”