Kafelnikov Doubts, Mouratoglou Hopes as Djokovic Sets 2026 Start in Adelaide

The 24-time major winner confronts rising skepticism over No. 25 given Alcaraz and Sinner's dominance.

Overview

Kafelnikov said it is practically impossible for a soon‑to‑be 39‑year‑old Djokovic to win another Slam, citing recovery limits and best‑of‑five demands.
Patrick Mouratoglou called Djokovic the greatest but said chances for a 25th major are small, even as he hopes for one final triumph.
Djokovic has not won a Grand Slam since the 2023 US Open and reached all four semifinals in 2025 without making a final.
His 2025 Slam run included a retirement against Alexander Zverev at the Australian Open and defeats to Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz at the other three.
Djokovic has been preparing in Dubai and is scheduled to open 2026 at the Adelaide International before the Australian Open, with LA 2028 listed among his long‑term goals.