Novak Djokovic believes his display at the Australian Open has only further proved his credentials of challenging for future grand slams this season. 

Djokovic was beaten in the final by Carlos Alcaraz in January, with the Serbian downing Jannik Sinner in the last four at Melbourne Park, only to fall short of a 25th major. 

He has since taken time away from the court, but returns this week at Indian Wells, where Kamil Majchrzak or Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard await in his first match. 

And after his performance in the season-opening slam of 2026, Djokovic arrives at Indian Wells with confidence. 

"For me, that has been a phenomenal result," Djokovic said of his run to the showpiece match in Australia. 

"I have proven to myself primarily and to others that I can still compete at the highest level and beat these guys.

"So my logic is why not keep going as long as I have that fire and flair and quality and also the motivation to do that.

"There are objectives and goals that are always there. You want to win, so you want to get another title and get another slam, hopefully. I was close in Australia."

Bravo Carlos, little titan, young wizard of Oz. A worthy champion, a huge talent, wonderful person and history-maker

And Australia, so much love. No place like the happy slam. Forever grateful. pic.twitter.com/9jLoC8ZPw1

— Novak Djokovic (@DjokerNole) February 1, 2026

Djokovic has now made 38 singles finals at a grand slam event, the most of any player in the Open Era, and also has an impressive record at Indian Wells. 

Since the event's inauguration in 1976, Roger Federer and Djokovic have won the equal-most men's singles titles at Indian Wells, winning the event five times each.

Indeed, Djokovic has also won the most consecutive men's singles matches at Indian Wells, claiming 19 straight wins at the event between 2014 and 2017. 

Since his Indian Wells debut in 2005, Djokovic has tallied a 51-11 win-loss record at the tournament, but was beaten in the second round last year by Botic van de Zandschulp.