Don't write off Djokovic: Federer backs Serbian's title hunt at US Open

Roger Federer has backed Novak Djokovic to contend again at the US Open despite the Serbian's recent major frustrations. The endorsement from a long-time rival underlines how Djokovic's pedigree still shapes the field as he chases a 25th Slam.Federer has backed Djokovic's title bid at US Open (Courtesy: Reuters)Roger Federer claimed that Novak Djokovic cannot be ruled out from winning another grand slam and said he always has a chance when he puts himself into the draw. Djokovic has been chasing his 25th grand slam title for quite sometime but has struggled in major tournaments.Djokovic last won a grand slam all the way back in 2023 in the form of the US Open. That was the year when he won three grand slams and looked to be at the top of his game. Since then, he has reached the final of Wimbledon in 2024. This year, he reached the final of the Australian Open, where he was beaten by Carlos Alcaraz.While many feel that Djokovic is maybe past his prime, his former rival Federer isn't one of them. Speaking ahead of his exhibition appearance at the Flushing Meadows, the former World No.1 feels that Djokovic has proved that he has still got it in him to make a run for the title.“I feel like whenever Novak enters any tournament, for that matter, or a major, he’ll have a shot,” the 45-year-old Swiss said. “Anyway, that’s my opinion. I have many high regards of Novak. I’ve see what he can do, not just once, not just here or there. He’s done it in every place and at the highest of levels,” said Federer. Federer came out on top in 23 of his 50 meetings with Djokovic, although his only Grand Slam final victory over the Serbian came at the 2007 US Open. The Swiss great also believes Djokovic's continued presence on the tour is proof of his ambition, he wouldn't still be competing if he didn't believe he could add more major titles to his collection.“I always think that as long as he’s in the draw, there’s a chance,” he said. “I think that’s also one of the reasons he’s still playing, because he actually truly must believe that he can still do it. That’s my opinion, too," said Federer.'IMPRESSED BY DJOKOVIC' Federer also reflected on the 24-time Grand Slam champion's remarkable ability to battle through adversity and find solutions, both during matches and throughout an extraordinary career spanning more than two decades.“We played each other 50 times on all different surfaces and all the biggest courts. He was a pleasure to play against,” Federer said. “Incredible player, unbelievable fighter. Figured out his game, became bigger and stronger and better. It’s amazing he’s still going. I’m very impressed.”Djokovic will start his journey at the US Open in the mixed doubles challenge alongside Aryna Sabalenka.- EndsPublished On: Aug 25, 2026 19:25 IST