Novak Djokovic’s name is synonymous with resilience. Time and again, he has shown the world why he is one of the greatest athletes in sporting history. At the 2025 Australian Open, Djokovic delivered yet another masterclass in mental toughness, overcoming a set deficit and an upper leg injury to defeat Carlos Alcaraz, in four gruelling sets. His 4-6, 6-4, 6-3, 6-4 victory not only kept his record-breaking 25th Grand Slam hopes alive but also reaffirmed his unparalleled willpower.
Trailing in the first set and visibly struggling with his movement after a medical timeout, Djokovic was forced to adjust his game. He served and volleyed, took risks, and looked to shorten points—all hallmarks of a player willing to do whatever it takes to win. Even after a gruelling 33-shot rally in the fourth set that left him agitated and Alcaraz smiling, the Serbian maestro found a way to respond with unwavering focus.
This isn’t the first time Djokovic has clawed his way back from adversity. His career is a testament to his ability to dig deep and turn the tide when all seems lost. Here are three of his most memorable Grand Slam comebacks that underscore his warrior-like mentality:
- 2021 French Open Final vs. Stefanos Tsitsipas
Down two sets to love against a confident Tsitsipas, Djokovic looked like he was heading for defeat. But with typical grit, he fought back, grinding his way through long rallies and using his impeccable shot selection to wear down the Greek star. The result? A stunning 6-7, 2-6, 6-3, 6-2, 6-4 victory and a second Roland Garros title.
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- 2019 Wimbledon Final vs. Roger Federer
In one of the greatest matches in tennis history, Djokovic faced two championship points against Federer in the final set. With the Centre Court crowd firmly behind his opponent, he stayed composed, trusted his game, and won in a historic fifth-set tiebreak. It was a match that exemplified his mental fortitude under immense pressure.
- 2012 Australian Open Final vs. Rafael Nadal
In an epic five-hour, 53-minute battle—the longest Grand Slam final ever—Djokovic endured physical exhaustion, relentless rallies, and a formidable Nadal to claim victory. Despite losing the fourth set in a tiebreak and looking physically spent, he summoned the willpower to edge past Nadal 5-7, 6-4, 6-2, 6-7, 7-5 in an unforgettable encounter that cemented his reputation as the ultimate fighter.
Djokovic’s ability to overcome adversity is the cornerstone of his greatness. Whether it’s injuries, formidable opponents, or an unfavourable scoreline, his resilience, perseverance, and tactical intelligence always shine through. Even at 37, with his body not as forgiving as it once was, his mindset remains his greatest weapon.
As he now prepares for a semifinal clash against second seed Alexander Zverev, Djokovic’s belief in his own abilities will once again be put to the test. Seeded No. 7 at this tournament, he has already proven that rankings mean little when it comes to his Grand Slam pedigree.
Can Djokovic take another step closer to his 25th major title? If history is anything to go by, writing him off would be a mistake.
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