Djokovic after his retirement: "My last appearance at the Australian Open? There's always a chance that's the case".

Novak Djokovic will not be fighting to win an 11th Australian Open this Sunday.

The Serb, who has been hampered by a leg injury since his match against Carlos Alcaraz in the quarter-finals, withdrew after losing the first set to Alexander Zverev in a tie-break.

At the press conference, Djokovic was asked about his chances of returning to the Australian Open in the years to come.

"Is this my last appearance at the Australian Open? I don't know, but there's always a possibility that it will be.

We'll have to see how the season develops. I want to keep going, so we'll see whether I'll have an adjusted schedule next year or not, I don't know yet.

I love coming to Australia to play, because this is where I've had the greatest success in my career. But on the other hand, if I'm still healthy and motivated, I see no reason not to come next year.

It's a torn muscle. Two years ago, I managed this injury in a better way, I didn't feel the pain on the court. This time, it was different.

I gave up in the semi-finals this season. At the time, I can only be disappointed. But on the other hand, Australia will always be in my mind and in my heart.

It's true that over the last few years, I've suffered more injuries than I used to. I don't know why, there must be several reasons.

But as long as I feel deep down that I want to win Grand Slams, I'll be there," assured the Serb.