Novak Djokovic of Serbia holds up his runner-up trophy after his loss to Carlos Alcaraz of Spain in the men's singles final at the Australian Open tennis championship in Melbourne, Australia, Sunday, Feb. 1, 2026. Photo: VCG

Despite suffering a 3-1 defeat on Sunday during the Australian Open men's singles final, Serbian tennis veteran Novak Djokovic was hailed for his tenacity and persistence in the sport. 

In a gut-wrenching four-set clash at the Rod Laver Arena, the 38-year-old indomitable athlete was outmaneuvered by 22-year-old Carlos Alcaraz, who completed his career Grand Slam at a record-breaking young age. 

The match showcased Djokovic's trademark fighting spirit as he battled back from an early setback, only to fall short against the dynamic Spaniard in four sets. Even Alcaraz also paid tribute to Djokovic in his winning speech.

"What you are doing is really inspiring, not only for tennis players but the athletes and persons around the world," Alcaraz said. "I enjoy so much watching you play and it's been an honor to share the court with you. Thank you very much for what you are doing."

When congratulating Alcaraz in his own speech after the match, Djokovic joked that he will continue to play.

"Congratulations to Carlos. You are still young and have a lot of time like myself. I'm sure we will see each other many times in the next 10 years," Djokovic said. 

"I must be very honest and say that I didn't think that I would be standing in a closing ceremony of a Grand Slam once again. So I think I owe you the gratitude as well for pushing me forward."

It was a first defeat for Djokovic in a Melbourne final, having won all 10 previously, leaving him still searching for a landmark 25th major to best Australian female tennis trailblazer Margaret Court.

Djokovic's presence in the final also drew a lot of praise from Chinese fans and media. 

"Facing the world No.1 at a Grand Slam finals with such a quality performance, if he can still show this level of passion for the sport, there's really no reason for him to think about retiring," tennis commentator Zhang Bendou wrote on Sina Weibo. 

"He has contested the Australian Open 21 times, claiming 10 championships at Melbourne Park. This marks the first time he has lost a final here. One defeat gives us the chance to once again look back on his outstanding achievements at this venue and reaffirm his greatness," Zhang noted.

Djokovic, striving to become the oldest man to lift a Grand Slam singles trophy, last won a major at the US Open in 2023. Since then Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner have shared the spoils at Grand Slam events. 

Both Djokovic and Alcaraz battled through five long sets in their semifinals, Alcaraz against Alexander Zverev and Djokovic with world No.2 Sinner, so recovery was always going to be key after their physical struggles.

"It's really a pity that he missed such a great opportunity for his 25th Grand Slam title. But in these two matches against the twin stars [Alcaraz and Sinner], he has already performed more than well enough. Who else in men's tennis could achieve that?" Chinese tennis influencer Kemuji posted on Sina Weibo. "I'm sure the 25th will come eventually! Keep fighting till the very end."

Djokovic's old-time rival Rafa Nadal was also seen in the front row of the stands. The Serb is the only player in the tennis "Big Three" that remains competitive after both Roger Federer and Nadal have retired. 

He also joked with Nadal in the stands, saying, "There are too many Spanish legends. I feel like I was one against two tonight. It's not fair."

While Chinese fans continue to draw motivation from Djokovic's performance, seeing in his 38-year-old defiance a reminder that dedication can conquer age and doubt, the defeat has only amplified admiration for his role as the enduring force in men's tennis. 

"As the sole remaining active member of the iconic 'Big Three,' his presence on the biggest stages keeps inspiring a global audience, including those in China, where his story resonates deeply with themes of perseverance and grace under pressure," one Sina Weibo user posted. 

"His presence in a Grand Slam final shows us how to face adversity with grace. The defeat will fuel him to grow stronger."