After a five-set battle, the Serb reaches the final: “I have incredible respect for Sinner—only legends stay on the court until 2 a.m.”

He spreads his arms, kneels down, and makes the sign of the cross. Novak Djokovic, the eternal hero, beats Jannik Sinner and returns to the Slam final. The dream of a 25th title is still alive; Carlos Alcaraz stands in the way, but this Nole seems capable of anything, filled with an energy similar to the one that led him to win Olympic gold against the Spaniard in 2024: “I can’t find the words,” he says, in a daze. It feels surreal to play four hours and finish at 2 a.m.; it reminds me of the match against Rafa in 2012. I have incredible respect for Jannik; he pushed me to the limit. There are some legends who have stayed until 2 a.m. I love this passionate rivalry. This may have been the night I had the most support in Australia.”

on his way to the final— In recent days and last year, he said that Sinner and Alcaraz are on another level: “I said it would be difficult to beat them, but not that I wouldn’t try. The match between Zverev and Alcaraz was incredible; I saw Carlos before it started, and he apologized for delaying my match. I told him I’m getting old and need to go to bed early…” The pursuit of legend excites him: “I feel like I’ve almost won already. I can’t wait to face Carlos, the world No. 1. And I hope the gods will let the best man win.”