Ex-ATP ace delivers bold verdict on Novak Djokovic’s struggles: “Come up with solutions”

Novak Djokovic’s remarkable consistency in 2025 has kept him among tennis’ elite, but even the Serbian icon admits he’s facing a tougher battle than ever before. Despite reaching the semifinals in all four Grand Slams this season and winning his 100th career title in Geneva, questions have begun to surface about whether the 38-year-old can continue to dominate as the next generation rises.

Djokovic’s struggles against the new guard

Djokovic’s recent record against Jannik Sinner has become one of the talking points of the season. The young Italian has defeated the 24-time Grand Slam champion in their last five meetings, with his last loss to Djokovic dating back to the 2023 ATP Finals in Turin. Since then, Sinner has transformed into one of the most formidable forces on tour, sharing the spotlight with Carlos Alcaraz as the new face of men’s tennis.

Acknowledging the challenge ahead, Novak Djokovic has spoken openly about how difficult it is to keep pace with Sinner and Alcaraz, both of whom are now at the peak of their powers. Still, he remains determined to continue his pursuit of more historic milestones.

Tim Henman’s honest take on Novak Djokovic’s situation

Former ATP star Tim Henman recently weighed in on Djokovic’s form in an interview with Tennis365, offering a frank assessment of the veteran’s current state.

“He made four Grand Slam semi-finals this year and that is a phenomenal achievement, but when you have played five matches to get there and then you are coming up against these youngsters who are at the peak of their powers, he’s not been able to come up with the solutions,” Henman said.

Henman emphasized that despite Novak Djokovic’s struggles to overcome the new generation, his overall achievements remain nothing short of extraordinary.

“What I always say about these great players is they should play as long as they want. They have earned the right to play as long as they want. If they are enjoying it, keep playing. It’s the best job in the world. You are a long time retired,” he added.

While Djokovic’s dominance has waned slightly, his hunger to compete shows no signs of fading. The coming year will be pivotal as he decides how to manage his schedule and maintain peak performance levels against physically superior and younger opponents. As Henman noted, “It will be interesting to see how Novak Djokovic approaches 2026, what his schedule is like and his level of play.”