Novak Djokovic Eyes ‘Third Rival’ to Join Alcaraz–Sinner Era: “I Empathise With That Role”

SME News UK. Novak Djokovic has expressed hope that a third player will emerge to join Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz at the top of men’s tennis, forming a new era of rivalries reminiscent of the sport’s golden years.The 24-time Grand Slam champion forged one of tennis’ greatest rivalries alongside Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal, a three-way battle that dominated the sport for nearly two decades. As the 2025 US Open gets underway, Djokovic sees shades of that dynamic in the current rivalry between Alcaraz and Sinner, but believes the door is open for another contender to complete the picture.“I think their rivalry is without a doubt the best one we have at the moment,” Djokovic said. “It looks like it is going to stay like that for some time. Then you have other young players that are definitely going to challenge, and hopefully someone can get in the mix.“There are players that are able to have that joker spot, that third spot. I kind of empathise with the third guy, because I was in those shoes with Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal.”Djokovic will begin his 2025 US Open campaign on Monday at Arthur Ashe Stadium, where he faces American teenager Learner Tien in the opening round. The Serbian legend is still chasing history, with his eyes firmly set on a record-extending 25th Grand Slam title.While Sinner and Alcaraz battle for dominance in the ATP rankings, Djokovic has made clear that his focus lies elsewhere.“I am not chasing the rankings or building up my points, I just don’t think about it anymore,” he explained. “For me, it is really about where I find motivation and joy, where I am inspired to play my best tennis. Grand Slams are the four tournaments where I feel the most motivation.“I don’t have a schedule other than the Grand Slams. I kind of feel in the moment what I want to do and how I want to balance things out with the other priorities in life — family being of course the main one, and being there for the important dates.”With Alcaraz and Sinner leading the charge and Djokovic still in the hunt for history, all eyes will be on Flushing Meadows to see whether a new name can rise and claim the “joker spot” in men’s tennis’ next great rivalry.