December 8th 2024.
According to former professional tennis player Nikolay Davydenko, Novak Djokovic is determined to defy the natural progression of time in order to break the long-standing records of his fellow Big Four members, Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal. At 37 years old, Djokovic is the lone survivor of the highly competitive Big Four era, with Federer, Nadal, and Andy Murray all having retired from the sport.
In his quest for a historic 25th major singles title at the upcoming Australian Open, Djokovic has enlisted the help of Murray as his coach. While he has already surpassed Federer and Nadal in terms of Grand Slam singles trophies, Davydenko believes that Djokovic has his sights set on another record before hanging up his racket. "He's trying to cheat nature," Davydenko shared in an interview with Match TV. "Maybe he wants to surpass Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal's record for longest career. Roger finished at 41, maybe Novak wants to reach that age. Maybe he'll play fewer tournaments."
Davydenko, who himself won 21 career titles and reached four major semi-finals, including three against Federer, continued to discuss Djokovic's determination to prove that age is not a barrier in the sport. "Federer at 40 tried to prove he was tough. But he didn't prove anything. Djokovic is doing the same thing now, he is trying to show that age is no problem for him." However, the retired Russian acknowledged that even the best players are not immune to the physical toll of the sport. "Novak is trying to cheat nature, but he can only do it for a couple of years. We are not robots. The loads are serious, injuries happen. Take any current tennis player – everyone had, has or will have health problems. Everyone finishes their career because of injuries that limit our training."
In a touching moment earlier this year, Djokovic sent a heartfelt message to Federer, Nadal, and Murray, acknowledging the impact they have had on the sport and the void their retirements have left. "A part of me left with them," Djokovic shared. As he continues to push his body and defy the limitations of age, Djokovic remains a dominant force in the world of professional tennis. Only time will tell if he is able to achieve his ultimate goal of breaking Federer and Nadal's records.
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