“Can the Serbian sniper win another Slam? YES”: Former Serena Williams coach maps out Djokovic’s 2026 path

Former Serena Williams coach Rick Macci has taken to social media to outline exactly what needs to happen for Novak Djokovic to capture a Grand Slam title in 2026. The renowned American coach remains confident that "Nole" can hoist his 25th major trophy, though he admits specific circumstances regarding his younger rivals and match duration must align for this to become reality.

Djokovic’s absolute reign over major tournaments concluded with his victory at the 2023 US Open—his 24th major title. Over the subsequent two seasons, the new guard of Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner has effectively monopolized the major stage, claiming all eight Grand Slam titles contested during that span. Djokovic managed to reach only one final at Wimbledon 2024, falling to Alcaraz, while suffering elimination in five semifinal appearances—four of which occurred during the 2025 season.

While the 38-year-old continues to battle on tour with the ambition of adding to his record tally, doubts have naturally surfaced regarding his ability to consistently challenge the dominance of Sinner and Alcaraz. Despite playing a significantly lighter schedule, the Serbian remains the World No. 4, a clear indicator that his level is still superior to the vast majority of the tour, even if that does not necessarily guarantee another major triumph against the very best.

Heading into the Australian Open as the fourth seed, Djokovic will benefit from a draw that avoids potential clashes with Alcaraz or Sinner until the semifinals. With 10 titles in Melbourne already under his belt, it remains the ideal setting for a resurgence—a sentiment shared by Macci regarding the Serbian's prospects for the 2026 season.

"Asked if the Joker can win a slam in 2026. YES. 1. If Sinner/ Alcaraz get upset or get injured. 2. If he does not have 5 set street fights and has time to recover. Can the Serbian Sniper the Rubber Band man win another Slam? YES because he has been there done that!"

With a month remaining before the season's first major, Alcaraz, Sinner, and Djokovic are deep in their preseason preparations. Sinner will arrive in Melbourne as the two-time defending champion and arguably the principal favorite, having finished the previous season on a blistering 15-match winning streak. This run included three consecutive titles, capped by a victory over Alcaraz in the final of the ATP Finals.

Conversely, Alcaraz enters the new season as the World No. 1. Having reached the quarterfinals in 2025, he faces less pressure regarding point defense compared to the Italian. The Spaniard is guaranteed to leave the Australian swing atop the rankings regardless of the outcome in Melbourne. After stalling in the quarterfinals for the past two seasons, he aims to improve that record and potentially complete the Career Grand Slam—winning all four majors—to become the youngest player in history to achieve the feat.

The tennis world waits to see if Djokovic can stand his ground against the two favorites at his most successful tournament. Of his 24 major titles, 10 were secured in Melbourne, where he holds a commanding 99-10 record (91%). A first-round victory would see him surpass the historic 100-win mark in Australia. Notably, the three title contenders, along with Ben Shelton, have opted for a unique strategy, deciding not to play any warm-up tournaments prior to the start of the action.