Djokovic US Open 2025 Semifinal Exit Highlights Rising Alcaraz, Sinner Challenge

Novak Djokovic's pursuit of a record-breaking 25th Grand Slam title suffered a setback after his semifinal loss to Carlos Alcaraz at the 2025 US Open, marking the first time since 2017 he failed to reach a major final. At 38, Djokovic acknowledged the physical toll of competing against younger stars like Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner, who have blocked his path at recent majors and are widely considered the dominant forces in men's tennis today. Despite reaching the semifinals of all four Grand Slams this year, Djokovic admitted after his defeat that Alcaraz and Sinner are 'too good' and that best-of-five matches present a significant challenge for him. Former world No. 1 Mats Wilander echoed this sentiment, suggesting that Djokovic is no longer at his physical peak and currently ranks as the third-best player behind these rising stars. Nevertheless, Djokovic remains determined to continue competing in Grand Slams, although he is uncertain about playing a full Grand Slam season next year due to his age and the increasing difficulty of overcoming his younger rivals. His upcoming plans include competing at the ATP Tour event in Athens, with future participation in Melbourne Park yet to be decided.