Watch best shots from men’s final between Alcaraz and Djokovic

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It has been quite the start to 2026 for Novak Djokovic.In his only appearance on the court so far, the Serbian star reached the final of the Australian Open, where he lost in four sets to Carlos Alcaraz.

However, the 38-year-old has decided to be selective about which tournaments he competes in going forward, withdrawing from the Qatar Open because of fatigue.

So, what do we know about Djokovic’s future plans?

When does Novak Djokovic play next?

Having missed the Qatar Open, Djokovic’s next appearance on court will be at Indian Wells.

Djokovic is a joint-record five-time champion at the tournament, holding the record with Roger Federer. His last victory in California came in 2016.

The hard-court event, which runs from March 4 to March 15, will also see Carlos Alcaraz, Jannik Sinner and defending champion Jack Draper all compete in a stacked men’s field.

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‘Alright, I made it’ – Alcaraz shows off Australian Open trophy after historic career Grand Slam win

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What has Novak Djokovic said about his 2026 schedule?

As one of the elder statesmen in men’s tennis, Djokovic has been very open about the need to reduce the number of tournaments he appears in.

The tennis calendar is busy even for the younger players, particularly with the travel included to compete all across the globe, and so the world No. 3 has made the decision to prioritise where he appears.

After losing to Alcaraz in the final of the Australian Open, Djokovic reiterated his intention to cut down his schedule to target the four Grand Slams, as well as possibly competing at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games.

“God knows what happens tomorrow, let alone in six or 12 months, so it has been a great ride – I love you guys,” Djokovic said.

“That’s why I left it open. I really don’t know. You’ve followed me for a long time and I don’t pretend or fake things. I told you for the last year or year and a half that I’m not sure how much and what is next.

“I said I’d like to play until the 2028 Olympics, but that might mean playing one tournament a year, maybe 10, 15, two, or seven – I honestly don’t know.

“I don’t want to make decisions about my schedule and future so far in advance. Right now, my only wish is to be with my family, and then I’ll see what’s next.”

Djokovic will be 41 by the time the next Olympics gets underway on July 14, 2028, but he says he still wants to defend his crown. 

Djokovic completed a Golden Slam at Paris 2024, beating the current world No. 1 Alcaraz to claim his first Olympic gold medal.picture

Djokovic pays tribute to ‘historic, legendary’ Alcaraz

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When is Novak Djokovic’s next shot at Grand Slam record?

Djokovic jointly holds the record for the most Grand Slam titles with Australian tennis legend Margaret Court, both with 24.

And having missed out on the opportunity to break that tie at the Australian Open earlier this year, Djokovic’s next chance to surpass Court is at the French Open later this year.

The tournament will begin on May 24 and will be shown on TNT Sports and discovery+.

Djokovic’s last Grand Slam victory came at the 2023 US Open, beating Daniil Medvedev in straight sets in the final.

Watch and stream live tennis – including the 2026 French Open – on TNT Sports and discovery+