Novak Djokovic’s record-breaking longevity doesn’t surprise anyone any more – least of all him

Holger Rune proved to be a fitting opponent for Novak Djokovic as he secured his latest record. Djokovic will once again finish the season as world No 1, marking 400 weeks spent at the top of the rankings, solidifying his lead in that statistic.

In 2023, Djokovic has been extraordinarily dominant, boasting a 27-1 record at the grand slams, securing major titles in the Australian Open, the French Open, and the US Open, bringing his total number of grand slam wins to a record-breaking 24, with his only defeat at Wimbledon against Carlos Alcaraz.

These figures indicate a player at the peak of their powers, even though Djokovic’s 2011 and 2015 seasons stand out as higher pinnacles. Nevertheless, no player in the history of men’s tennis has been so superior at this point in their career.

At 36, Djokovic continues to rise higher, seeking motivation by competing against the “younger ones.” Following Alcaraz’s finish as world No 1 in 2022, Djokovic’s return to claim the world No 1 spot was a primary aim for his 2023 campaign.

Djokovic’s longevity is magnified at the season-ending ATP Finals. Competing against players born up to two decades after him, he remains a true outlier, having bested this generation with ease over the years, one that continues to succeed and moves on from the post-big three era.

While this week’s ATP Finals will see the tournament debuts of Alcaraz, Rune, and Jannik Sinner, Djokovic has proven himself time and time again, maintaining his consistency and responding emphatically to Roland-Garros defeats.

Djokovic’s continual success is a testament to his mentality and physicality, and his next goal is to become the oldest world No 1 of all time by maintaining his position at the top of the rankings until his 37th birthday in May, further solidifying his confidence that “age is just a number.”

Djokovic is expected to face challenges during ATP Finals, but despite the presence of fierce competitors, he remains the favorite to secure another ATP Finals title, leaving no doubt of his enduring greatness in the world of tennis.