Novak Djokovic played down any talk of retirement on the eve of the Australian Open, insisting that tennis still gives him an “adrenaline rush almost like a drug.”

The 38-year-old is preparing for his 21st Australian Open campaign and remains among the leading favourites to win, behind defending champion Jannik Sinner and world number one Carlos Alcaraz.

Melbourne Park is also among his favourite venues, having lifted the trophy there a record 10 times, most recently in 2023.

Despite reducing his schedule in recent seasons, Djokovic says his continued enjoyment of the game is driving his longevity at the top level.

“I’m still living my dream to be honest,” the Serbian said.

“It’s passion and love for the game. It’s the interaction with people. It's the energy that you feel when you walk out on the court. That adrenaline rush, it’s almost like a drug.

“I think that a lot of the top athletes from different sports can relate to that. I have been at least hearing them speak about that.

“It’s so addictive, you know, the feeling of competing.”

21st AO appearance. 10 trophies. "I'm just grateful to have another shot" https://t.co/G7BwyvCfYB

— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 17, 2026

Despite frequent speculation about whether he is planning his retirement, Djokovic insists that he is not planning his farewell tour anytime soon.

“I have been asked a lot about obviously when is the end date going to come for me, but I don’t want to talk or think about it yet because I’m here, I’m competing,” he said.

“When that arrives and kind of becomes ripe in my head, I’ll share it with you, and then we can all discuss on the farewell tour.

“But right now I’m still number four in the world, still competing at the highest level, and I feel like there is no need to draw attention to that discussion.”

Djokovic's 10 Australian Open titles are the most of any player in the Open Era, with Rafael Nadal the only other man to win a single grand slam 10 or more times in that span (14 French Open crowns).

He will kick off his quest for a 25th major crown on Monday against Pedro Martinez in the first round.