It has been clear throughout the season that Djokovic’s ageing body is, understandably, not able to withstand the rigours needed to win the sport’s biggest prizes as well as it used to.

He still has the technical quality to challenge most of the ATP Tour, demonstrated by reaching the semi-finals at all four majors this year.

Djokovic was not able to complete his Australian Open semi-final against Alexander Zverev, which came three days after he courageously beat Alcaraz while hampered by a leg injury.

He also moved into the last four at the French Open and Wimbledon, but faded physically after being unable to break down Sinner.

At last month’s US Open, Djokovic acknowledged he “ran out of gas” in a three-set defeat by Alcaraz.

Winning a 25th major – moving him clear of Australia’s Margaret Court as the sole record holder – is the biggest priority in the twilight of his career.

Achieving that goal at the season-starting Slam in Melbourne, where he is already a record 10-time men’s champion, is his next key target.

Now Djokovic has to decide whether prolonging – or curtailing – this season will help his ambitions in 2026.