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Novak Djokovic's time-defying progress; Oldest ever champion at four of six biggest events in tennis

The 37-year-old Novak Djokovic 'completed' tennis with his maiden Olympic title as he has no other significant titles to claim in the sport.

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Jerin K Tomy
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Novak Djokovic (Source: X)

Novak Djokovic (Source: X)

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Is there anything in tennis this man can't do? A question on the minds of many fans after Novak Djokovic won his historic Olympic gold medal. The 37-year-old 'completed' tennis with his maiden Olympic title as he has no other significant titles to claim in the sport.

Last month, he was denied a record 25th Grand Slam title by Carlos Alcaraz at the Wimbledon Championships. A few weeks later, the superstars of two generations locked horns again in the French capital in the final of the world's biggest sporting event. This time, however, Djokovic overcame the young sensation to complete his career Golden Slam, becoming only the fifth player in history to do so.

While Alcaraz became the youngest to feature in the men’s singles final at the Olympics since 1988, Djokovic became the oldest to win gold. It is noteworthy that the Serbian had some injury concerns leading up to the recent major events. Notably, the Serbian has had injury concerns heading into the recent major events.

A tear in the medial meniscus of his right knee made him confirm his participation at Wimbledon at the last minute. However, he brushed aside all worries by reaching the finals in London and winning the title at the Paris Olympics.

Also Read: ‘I'll try to make it to…’ – Novak Djokovic during Serbia's gold medal celebration; hints at his retirement plans

Djokovic: Ageing like fine wine

Meanwhile, it's quite interesting that Djokovic is the oldest champion in four of tennis' six biggest events. He won gold in Paris at the age of 37 years and 74 days. At 36 years and 20 days, he won his third French Open title. When the World No. 1 claimed his fourth US Open in 2023, he was 36 years and 74 days old. He won his last ATP finals at the age of 36 years and 181 days.

Djokovic would have extended his record had Alcaraz not beaten him in the Wimbledon final in July. With the US Open 2024 around the corner, the legendary player has an opportunity to rewrite his record. Moreover, he is also the second-oldest-ranked player in history.

Also Read: 'I think Novak can still play 3 or 4 years '- Patrick Mouratoglou on Novak Djokovic's future in professional tennis

Novak Djokovic
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