Roger Federer believes long-time rival Novak Djokovic will once again be one of the players to beat at next year’s Australian Open despite the 24-time Grand Slam winner’s patchy form this year.

Having won the Australian Open, French Open and US Open last year to take his Grand Slam tally to 24, Djokovic started the 2024 season at No 1 in the rankings and was widely expected to continue to dominate on the major scene.

However, he was beaten by Jannik Sinner in the semi-final at Melbourne Park, withdrew from his quarter-final match at the French Open as he underwent knee surgery, lost in the Wimbledon final against Carlos Alcaraz and was stunned in the third round of the US Open by Alexei Popyrin.

Djokovic, though, did claim one big title this year as he completed his career Grand Slam by winning singles gold at the Paris Olympics.

Sinner and Alcaraz ended up sharing the four majors with the former also winning at Flushing Meadows while Alcaraz was also victorious at Roland Garros.

Many believe the two youngsters will also be the ones to beat next year and Federer shares that opinion, but he thinks Djokovic will also be in the conversation at the Australian Open.

“Novak, winning the Olympics and playing somewhat let’s say a full season – he didn’t bow out because of injuries, he chose to play less which is normal when you get a bit older,” the retired Swiss star said.

“I feel like he has chances moving forward.

“I look forward to Australia which is the next Slam. I think he’s definitely going to be one of the favourites along with Sinner and Alvarez.

“I think the Australian Open story will be a very cool one to follow.”

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Djokovic has played only 40 matches this year, but that is a lot in comparison to Nadal’s 19 as the Spaniard is struggled since returning to action following his long lay-off last year.

Nadal underwent hip surgery in May 2023 and only made his comeback at the start of 2024, but he then picked up another injury and skipped the Australian Open. He only played a handful of clay court events before the French Open and ended up losing in the first round at Roland Garros.

The 22-time major champion’s big aim was always the Paris Olympics, but he lost in the singles second round against Djokovic. He was then expected to compete at the Laver Cup, but withdrew last week without giving an indication when he will return to action.

Federer added: “With Rafa we don’t know – it remains to be seen. It’s hard for me to make a prediction on Rafa because of the little tennis he has played this year.”