Former World No. 3 thinks Novak Djokovic ‘is trying to cheat nature’ to surpass Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal’s records
Former World No.3 Nikolay Davydenko explained the reason behind Novak Djokovic's goal of prolonging his career.
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Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic (via Tennis Majors)
Former World No. 3 Nikolay Davydenko thinks the reason Novak Djokovic is still playing in spite of clinching the most Grand Slam titles in men’s tennis is because he wants to surpass Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal in another area. Nadal retired at the age of 38, while Federer was 41 years old when he hung up his racket.
Davydenko believes Djokovic wants to surpass Nadal and Federer to have the longest career. Federer struggled with injuries during the final years of his career and retired at the 2022 Laver Cup.
Nadal however didn’t gain his 100 percent fitness post the hip injury he suffered in 2022 and retired at the 2024 Davis Cup. Despite the injury problem, both Nadal and Federer tried prolonging their career and Davydenko pointed out Djokovic is trying to do the same.
Djokovic is doing the same thing now, he is trying to show that age is no problem for him. Novak is trying to cheat nature, but he can only do it for a couple of years.
Nikolay Davydenko said on Match TV
Davydenko said that no matter who the players are, they are not ‘robots’ and struggle with injuries, including the youngsters.
He’s trying to cheat nature. We’ll see if he succeeds. Maybe he wants to surpass Federer and Nadal’s record for longest career. Roger finished at 41, maybe Novak wants to reach that age.
Nikolay Davydenko added
Apart from most Grand Slam singles titles record in men’s tennis, Djokovic has won most Masters 1000 titles and spent most weeks as No. 1 on the ATP Tour. Djokovic struggled with form and fitness issues in 2024 and ended the year without a tour-level title.
Jimmy Connors gives his verdict on Novak Djokovic-Andy Murray partnership
To break more records, Novak Djokovic has hired Andy Murray as his coach for the Australian Open. Former player Jimmy Connors explained that the reason behind this collaboration is that the Serb wants to enter a ‘comfort zone’ because he has spent a lot of time on and off the court with the Brit.
So there comes a point in time, in your later years, where, you know, if you feel comfortable, and you feel relaxed with the people around you allows you to go out and to attempt to play your best tennis and give it your all.
Jimmy Connor said on Advantage Connor podcast
In 2025, Djokovic is scheduled to play the Brisbane International before going to Melbourne on his quest for his 11th Australian Open and 25th Grand Slam title.
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Gouri Das
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