Novak Djokovic has reaffirmed his commitment to competing in tennis beyond the age of 40. Speaking at the Joy Forum in Riyadh, he expressed no intentions of retiring anytime soon. Instead, he draws inspiration from other athletic icons who have enjoyed prolonged careers, such as LeBron James, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Tom Brady.
Longevity as Motivation
Djokovic highlighted longevity as one of his main motivations. He stated, “I really want to see how far I can go.” His interest in extending his career aligns with trends observed in other sports, where athletes continue to perform at high levels despite advancing age.
Interest in Tennis Evolution
As he looks to the future, Djokovic envisions a transformation within tennis. He aims to be a part of this evolution, contributing to the sport’s rejuvenation. “I want to be playing when we rejuvenate our sport and set the new platform that is going to go on for decades to come,” he mentioned.
Push for Change in Tennis
Djokovic has been active in advocating for significant reforms within tennis. He co-founded the Professional Tennis Players Association, which has taken legal action against tennis governing bodies. This effort aims to secure a larger share of revenue for players, especially concerning Grand Slam tournaments.
Six Kings Slam Exhibition Tournament
- Event: Six Kings Slam exhibition tournament
- Location: Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- Prize Money: $4.5 million (£3.4 million)
- Potential Winner’s Prize: Up to $6 million (£4.5 million)
Djokovic participated in the tournament but faced a setback, losing to defending champion Jannik Sinner with a score of 6-4, 6-2. Sinner, age 24, is set to compete against world number one Carlos Alcaraz in the final, following Alcaraz’s victory over Taylor Fritz.
As the sport navigates transformations, Djokovic remains determined to leave a lasting impact on tennis for future generations. His ambition to play beyond 40 showcases his dedication and potential to drive positive changes in the sport.
