At 38, Novak Djokovic stands at a crossroads in his illustrious career, chasing a record-breaking 25th Grand Slam title to surpass the mark he shares with Margaret Court. The Serbian tennis icon, whose unparalleled achievements have redefined the sport, faced a setback at Wimbledon 2025, where a semi-final loss to Jannik Sinner dashed hopes of adding to his 24-major haul. Despite this, Djokovic’s resolve remains unshaken, and his pursuit of history continues to captivate the tennis world. Former player and beloved entertainer Mansour Bahrami, known for his trick shots and insightful commentary, recently shared his thoughts on Djokovic’s chances, offering a blend of admiration and realism about the challenge ahead. “He’s a very honest man, and he’s very, very serious about what he’s doing, and he’s a great champion,” Bahrami said, reflecting on Djokovic’s enduring drive.
Djokovic’s 2025 season has been a tale of resilience marred by physical setbacks. A muscle tear forced his withdrawal from the Australian Open semi-finals against Alexander Zverev, and a fall during his Wimbledon quarter-final win over Flavio Cobolli left him visibly compromised against Sinner, who dispatched him 3-6, 3-6, 4-6. “Honestly, I thought that Djokovic had a chance, and I know he wants to win his 25th Grand Slam, so I thought he was going to make it,” Bahrami noted, recalling his optimism before Wimbledon. “But then he hurt himself, and we know how it went.” The injury prompted Djokovic to skip the Canadian Open, a decision not uncommon in recent years as he prioritizes Grand Slams. With the US Open looming, where he’s a four-time champion (2011, 2015, 2018, 2023), the question is whether Djokovic can defy Father Time and the rising tide of younger stars like Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz.
Bahrami, a former French Open doubles finalist turned exhibition showman, believes Djokovic’s best shot at the elusive 25th title lies at the Australian Open, where he’s won a record 10 times. “For me, Wimbledon was maybe the last one, so it would be unbelievable, and he has done so many things unbelievable that we all are amazed how great he’s done,” Bahrami said. “He’s capable at almost 39 to go and win the Australian Open.” Melbourne Park has been Djokovic’s fortress, with a 94-8 win-loss record and a semi-final appearance earlier this year despite injury. His withdrawal from Toronto suggests a strategic focus on Flushing Meadows, where he’ll also compete in mixed doubles with Olga Danilovic, adding intrigue to his campaign.
Djokovic’s pursuit is set against a shifting tennis landscape. The retirements of Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer have left a void, but Sinner and Alcaraz, both Grand Slam champions, have emerged as formidable barriers. Sinner’s Wimbledon triumph and Alcaraz’s French Open title underscore their dominance, yet Djokovic’s experience remains a potent weapon. “He can amaze us again, I think,” Bahrami asserted, highlighting Djokovic’s ability to seize critical moments. A glimmer of hope in the third set against Sinner at Wimbledon showed his trademark tenacity, but as Bahrami noted, “It’s going to get more and more difficult.” Djokovic himself remains defiant, stating, “If I am still physically capable and I still feel like I can beat the best, I will play.”
Bahrami’s admiration for Djokovic extends beyond his on-court prowess. Recalling a 2022 encounter at Roland Garros, he shared how Djokovic approached him, saying, “Mansour, I’ve seen your videos, and I love watching them. I’ve tried to pick some of your tricks, and I hope you don’t mind.” Bahrami, flattered, responded, “Nole, you are number 1 in the world, and the honor is mine.” This exchange underscores Djokovic’s respect for tennis history, even as he chases it. Bahrami, who once called Djokovic “the greatest player in history” despite his preference for Federer’s elegance, believes the Serbian’s competitive spirit could still yield miracles.
As Djokovic prepares for the US Open, where he faces pressure after a shock 2024 third-round loss to Alexei Popyrin, the tennis world watches closely. Veteran journalist Steve Flink has suggested that an early exit in New York could prompt Djokovic to reconsider his future, especially as he nears 39. Yet, Bahrami’s faith in Djokovic’s ability to “be there for a while” reflects the sentiment of many who refuse to count him out. With his unmatched flexibility, precise groundstrokes, and relentless drive, Djokovic’s quest for a 25th Grand Slam remains a compelling saga—one that could yet see him defy time and cement his legacy as the undisputed greatest.
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