On Monday, Djokovic will return to world number one, replacing 20-year-old Spaniard Alcaraz - beaten by Medvedev in the semi-finals - who now appears the biggest threat to his bid for an all-time record 25th major.
The Serb has spent the most weeks at number one in ATP ranking history (since 1973) and next week will be his 390th at the top of the men's game.
"You need to reinvent yourself, because everyone else does," Djokovic said. "As a 36-year-old competing with 20-year-olds, I probably have to do it more than ever."
The four-time US Open champion added: "It's a constant, evolving process of me trying to implement certain things that will give me an edge over the young guns."
It is difficult to comprehend what he may have achieved in another era.
Since Wimbledon 2003, Djokovic, Nadal and Federer have together claimed 66 of the 81 Grand Slam titles available over that period.
That is more than 81% of the available titles, with just 15 Slams in 20 years going to other players.
Now Djokovic will intend on increasing that share further when he returns to his favourite Grand Slam in January.
"To make the history of this sport is something truly remarkable and special," Djokovic said.
"I never imagined that I would be here, talking about 24 Slams. I never thought that would be the reality. But the last couple of years I felt I had a chance, a shot at history - and why not grab it if it's presented?"
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