Novak Djokovic is nearing the end of an extraordinary career, and many are questioning whether the Serbian can defy the aging process and extend his grand slam success beyond his 36th birthday. His rivals, Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal, both faced similar crossroads in their careers. Federer won his last grand slam at 36, while Nadal triumphed at the same age in 2022, making Djokovic’s position all the more significant.
Historically, tennis players have peaked in their mid-20s, with the likes of Björn Borg and John McEnroe dominating the sport early in their careers. It was not until the late 20th century that players began winning majors later in life, with men like Jimmy Connors and Pete Sampras claiming grand slam titles after turning 30. The trend of players winning major titles in their 30s was amplified by the Big Three, as Djokovic, Federer, and Nadal consistently claimed titles well into their 30s, shifting the perception of aging in tennis.
This is largely due to advancements in sports science and conditioning. Djokovic, in particular, has been known for his meticulous dedication to fitness, employing hyperbaric chambers and following a gluten-free diet, allowing him to maintain his physical prowess longer than most. This approach has extended his career far beyond what was previously thought possible in tennis, with Djokovic winning 12 grand slam titles after turning 30, the most notable being his victory at the 2023 US Open at 36.
Despite his impressive longevity, the question remains whether Djokovic can win another grand slam. At 36, his body is showing signs of wear, and he has admitted that winning consecutive matches has become more challenging. With his world ranking dropping to No. 6 and his upcoming schedule including the demanding French Open, Djokovic faces a difficult path forward. His preparation for the French Open has been limited due to an injury withdrawal in Rome, which could further hinder his chances.
While many experts doubt his ability to win another major, there are still those who believe Djokovic can defy expectations. His impressive record at Wimbledon, where he has won seven titles, provides a glimmer of hope. The shorter points on grass suit his game, and his serve remains a potent weapon. For Djokovic, Wimbledon may offer his best chance to claim a historic 25th grand slam title.
Steve Flink, a respected tennis journalist, is among those who remain confident in Djokovic’s ability to win another major. He points to Djokovic’s resilience and ability to perform under pressure, recalling how he silenced critics after his loss to Carlos Alcaraz in the 2023 Wimbledon final by going on to win the Olympic gold medal. Flink believes Djokovic thrives when doubted, and his motivation to achieve one more grand slam triumph is likely stronger than ever.
Whether Djokovic wins another grand slam or not, his legacy is already cemented as one of the greatest players in tennis history. If he doesn’t add to his tally, he will still share a remarkable symmetry with Federer and Nadal, with all three players having won their last major at 36. This connection further solidifies their place in tennis history as the most dominant trio the sport has ever seen.
