Djokovic Sets 2026 Start in Adelaide as Roddick Questions His Grand Slam Durability

After four Slam semifinals in 2025, injuries have raised doubts about the two-week grind he must navigate to add a 25th major.

Overview

Organizers have confirmed Novak Djokovic on the Adelaide International entry list to open his 2026 season before the Australian Open.
Andy Roddick said Djokovic may no longer be able to train as he once did and questioned whether his body can last seven best‑of‑five matches at a major.
Djokovic reached all four Grand Slam semifinals in 2025, won two titles to reach 101 career trophies, played only 13 events with a 39–11 record, and still finished in the year‑end top four.
Physical setbacks shaped the year, including a hamstring issue that led to a retirement in the Australian Open semifinal and shoulder problems that forced him out of the ATP Finals.
Analysts frame Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner as his chief hurdles, while Jon Wertheim and medical voices highlight Djokovic’s motivation and targeted recovery, sleep, and nutrition routines to extend his competitiveness.