The rivalry between Jannik Sinner and Novak Djokovic has quietly become one of the most compelling storylines in men’s tennis. And Jannik Sinner has now taken four of their last five meetings, shifting the dynamic after years of Djokovic’s dominance. Fresh off his latest win over the 24-time Grand Slam champion at the $13.5 million Six Kings Slam exhibition in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, the young Italian booked his spot in the final against rival Carlos Alcaraz. And even after getting the better of Djokovic once again, Sinner made sure to show nothing but respect for the tennis legend he continues to challenge.

With Jannik Sinner now riding a six-match winning streak over Novak Djokovic, including victories in the French Open and Wimbledon semifinals this season, the Italian once again delivered, cruising to a commanding 6-4, 6-2 victory a mere 62 minutes. Just moments after his latest triumph, The Tennis Letter took to X to share what Sinner had to say in his post-match interview.

Ever the class act, the 23-year-old paid tribute to the 38-year-old legend, saying, “No, I think he said everything. Such a great role model for the younger generation.”

The 24-year-old further went on to express his deep admiration for Djokovic, praising not only his accomplishments but also his relentless drive. “Seeing him competing and practicing and training for these moments is amazing. What he has achieved in his career is incredible,” Sinner said. “I see him as a real idol. To play against him is a huge honor and privilege. I’m happy about today, but I’m also happy to see him in tournaments and see him around.” So what’s next, you ask?

After wrapping up his run at the Six Kings Slam, Novak Djokovic is now gearing up for his next stop, the 2025 Paris Masters, scheduled from October 27 to November 2 at the La Défense Arena. And in case you already didn’t know, the tournament, played on indoor hard courts, is one of Djokovic’s favorite hunting grounds and a key stop on the ATP Masters 1000 calendar.

Interestingly, the Serbian star holds the record for the most titles in Paris, having won the event seven times: in 2009, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2019, 2021, and 2023. He’s also finished runner-up twice, in 2018 and 2022, proving just how consistent he’s been at this stage of the season.

Last year, Novak Djokovic was the defending champion but withdrew before the tournament began. Back in 2023, however, he put on a masterclass run, defeating Tomás Martín Etcheverry, Tallon Griekspoor, Holger Rune, Andrey Rublev, and finally Grigor Dimitrov in the final to capture his 40th ATP Masters title. So, while Jannik Sinner may have earned the bragging rights at the Six Kings Slam, Djokovic doesn’t seem too bothered. Why, you ask?

Novak Djokovic jokes off loss against Jannik Sinner

After the match, the 38-year-old Serb showed his trademark humor, jokingly apologizing to fans for how short the match was, and even giving Jannik Sinner full credit for the beatdown. “I’m sorry you couldn’t see a longer match today. It’s his fault, not my fault,” Djokovic said with a laugh, via The Tennis Letter. “I tried to intimidate him a bit in that last game with the 0–15 point, but it didn’t work. It felt like a runaway train. He was smacking the ball from all corners. He was just too good. Well done to him, and good luck in the finals.”

As for how Novak Djokovic feels competing against players more than a decade younger than him, the 24-time Grand Slam champion admitted it’s both humbling and inspiring. He said it’s an honor to still battle against guys like Sinner and Alcaraz at this stage of his career, even if the results don’t always go his way. “The training is always worth it. The love for the game and the passion for tennis is there,” he shared. “Excuse my language, but it’s never nice when someone kicks your a– like this on the court. But it definitely is amazing that I’m still able to play at a high level.”

With a grin, Novak Djokovic added a playful wish that summed up the generational shift in men’s tennis. “I would like if someone could trade a younger body with me, just for a year, so I can try to win against these guys. That would be nice,” he joked. “Jokes aside, I still have the drive. I know it’s becoming much more difficult for me to get a win against Jannik and Carlos. I’m gonna keep on challenging them until it happens.”

So now, with Djokovic out, Sinner and Alcaraz are set for yet another blockbuster final (their fifth of the year) and fans are eager to see if the Spaniard can stay on top before the ATP Finals. That said, how much longer do you think Novak Djokovic can realistically keep up with the next generation at this level?