Novak Djokovic has admitted it's getting harder to make the annual trip Down Under to play at the Australian Open.
The 10-time champion at Melbourne Park is short odds to add an 11th title to his already-record haul, and takes on Jannik Sinner on Friday night for a spot in Sunday's final.
But while his love affair with the Victorian capital is not waning, he opened up to Nine's Today host Karl Stefanovic about the challenges of flying to Australia each year.
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Stefanovic specifically asked Djokovic, 36, if he's dealing OK with leaving his wife and two children at home while he goes on tour.
"Not really, to be honest. I do struggle with that more and more as the time goes on," Djokovic said in the exclusive sit-down, to air fully on Monday.
"Australia is a long trip, probably the longest trip we have in the entire year. Being away for five weeks is quite a lot.
"My son is nine, my daughter is six, every day, every week they change, there's a lot happening.
"My daughter's first tooth went out and I wasn't there for that. But it's all about balance."
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Djokovic is in the midst of an incredible 33-game win streak at the Australian Open, but many experts are tipping Sinner to end that run on Friday night.
Melbourne holds a special place in the Serbian superstar 's heart, even after his shock deportation on the eve of the 2022 Open due to his refusal to get vaccinated against COVID-19.
"Obviously because of tennis and the success I've had here, it means a lot to me," he told Today.
"Every time I step out onto Rod Laver Arena I relive the memories of previous years and everything I've been through.
"I wanted to say I've enjoyed myself every single year… except one year. There was a short stay."
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