SAD NEWS: Jelena Djokovic shares heartbreaking update on Novak Djokovic’s health following grueling Australian Open final.
Melbourne/Belgrade, February 2, 2026. Hours after one of the most physically demanding matches of his legendary career, Novak Djokovic quietly checked into a Melbourne hospital for observation and treatment. His wife, Jelena Djokovic, confirmed the news on Sunday night through a brief but emotional message posted on her personal Instagram account, sparking concern in the global tennis community.
The seven-time Australian Open champion had just completed a four-set final against world No. 1 Carlos Alcaraz on Rod Laver Arena. The score was 2-6, 6-2, 6-3 and 7-5 in favor of Alcaraz, which marked the first time that Djokovic lost an Australian Open final in his 11 appearances. The match lasted 3 hours and 2 minutes, but the physical wear and tear of the 38-year-old Serbian became evident long before the final point.
Djokovic appeared increasingly fatigued in the closing stages, moving more stiffly and requiring longer rests between points.
After shaking Alcaraz’s hand and giving a kind speech on court praising his young opponent, Djokovic slowly left the arena, supported by his team.
Jelena’s message, posted just after midnight Melbourne time, read: “Our Novak gave it his all tonight. He pushed his body and mind more than most people can imagine. After the match, he was immediately taken to hospital for check-ups and rest. The doctors say he is stable, but he is exhausted and needs complete rest. Please keep him in your thoughts. Thank you for all the love you have shown him over the years.”
The post included a single photo of Novak leaving the court, crestfallen and with a towel draped over his shoulders. Within minutes, it had been shared hundreds of thousands of times. Fans, teammates and tennis officials responded with a shower of support and good wishes.
The Australian Open medical team had closely monitored Djokovic throughout the tournament. Sources close to the Serbian team revealed that he had been dealing with recurring lower back stiffness and general fatigue since the quarter-finals. The five-set semi-final against Jannik Sinner two days earlier (an epic of 4 hours and 9 minutes) had already taken its toll. Djokovic was reportedly warned by medical staff before the final that he was at high risk of serious muscle strains or complications related to dehydration if he pushed himself to the maximum of his physical abilities.
Dr. Goran Ivanisevic, Djokovic’s long-time friend and former coach, later commented in a Serbian television interview: “Novak played like a warrior tonight. But at 38 years old, after 24 Grand Slams and thousands of matches, the body comes to say enough is enough. The doctors warned us before the final that it might not finish if the match became longer and intense. “It ended anyway, because that’s who he is.”
Jelena Djokovic’s decision to share the news publicly appears to have been motivated by two factors: thanking fans for their support and avoiding misinformation. Shortly after the end of the match, false rumors about Djokovic’s heart problem or a more serious condition had already begun to circulate on social media. By addressing the situation directly and calmly, he helped calm much of the speculation.
The tennis world responded quickly and warmly. Carlos Alcaraz, the new Australian Open champion, posted on Instagram: “Novak is the best fighter I have ever faced. My condolences are with him, Jelena and his family. Rest in peace, champion. “You have contributed a lot to this sport.” Rafael Nadal, who has known Djokovic since his youth, wrote: “Get well soon, Novak. You are stronger than any rival. Sending lots of love to you and your beautiful family.
Roger Federer added: “The effort Novak puts in every time he steps on the court is incredible. I’m thinking about him tonight. Get well soon, friend! Current ATP players such as Jannik Sinner, Daniil Medvedev and Taylor Fritz also posted messages of support.
The ATP Tour issued an official statement: “We are aware of Novak Djokovic’s hospitalization following the Australian Open final. He is under excellent medical care and we wish him a speedy and complete recovery. Novak has given everything to tennis for more than two decades. “Our thoughts are with him and his family.”
Australian Open director Craig Tiley visited Djokovic in the hospital and later told the press: “Novak is resting peacefully. The medical team is monitoring him closely. He is in good spirits and is already talking about coming back stronger. “We are all proud of what he has achieved in these two weeks.”
Djokovic’s health scare serves as a sobering reminder of the physical demands placed on elite athletes, especially those who compete at the highest level well into their 30s. The Serbian star has spoken openly in recent years about managing chronic back and elbow problems, adopting rigorous recovery protocols and listening more closely to his body. Still, his refusal to retire or significantly reduce his schedule has become part of his legend.
Jelena Djokovic’s post concluded with a kind plea: “Please respect our privacy during this time. Novak will speak when he is ready. For now, he needs rest and peace.
As the tennis world digests the news, one thing is clear: Novak Djokovic’s impact transcends victories and records. His willingness to overcome pain and exhaustion has inspired millions, although it now requires a necessary pause. Fans from around the world send messages of love and healing, hoping that the man who has contributed so much to the sport will soon return, healthier, rested and ready to return to history.
Get well soon, Novak. The court—and the world—await your return.
