Sitting down with Novak Djokovic at the Joy Forum in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, one quickly senses the relentless energy and passion that has shaped his extraordinary career. At 38, Djokovic remains fiercely determined to extend his time at the top of professional tennis well beyond the typical retirement age. Drawing inspiration from sports legends known for defying age—like LeBron James in basketball, Cristiano Ronaldo in soccer, and Tom Brady in American football—Djokovic openly shares his ambition to push the limits of athletic longevity.

“Longevity is one of my biggest motivations,” he says with a sparkle in his eye. “I really want to see how far I can go.” This desire fuels an impressive mindset, one not just fixated on continuing to play, but thriving against the natural challenges of age and wear that inevitably confront athletes. Djokovic acknowledges the remarkable careers of those icons who have kept reaching new heights even as their peers faded, and he is determined to emulate their resilience.

Djokovic’s own journey is nothing short of historic. With 24 Grand Slam titles to his name—the most in men’s tennis history—he has long been a dominant force. His career, marked by epic rivalries with Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal, has redefined the modern era of tennis. Yet, despite recent setbacks and early exits from tournaments, Djokovic refuses to rest on past laurels. “I want to keep going,” he insists. “Across global sports, there are examples of athletes who keep evolving and performing at the highest level into their 40s. That’s what excites me.”

Looking beyond his personal achievements, Djokovic reveals a broader vision for the sport he loves. In 2020, he co-founded the Professional Tennis Players Association (PTPA), a groundbreaking move aimed at giving players a stronger voice and improving the professional landscape. This initiative underscores his commitment not just to winning but to fostering a better future for tennis.

“I want to live to see what’s coming for our sport,” Djokovic says enthusiastically. His leadership off the court is as important to him as his battles on it. The PTPA reflects his desire to innovate and advocate for fairness, player welfare, and progress, signaling a dedication to shaping tennis for generations to come.

Djokovic’s story is deeply rooted in perseverance and a drive for excellence—a narrative that began in Serbia when he was a young boy overcoming the challenges of war-torn Balkans. Initially coached by Jelena Gencic and later by Marian Vajda, Djokovic’s rise was marked by intense discipline, adaptability, and an unyielding belief in himself. These qualities helped him succeed where many doubted, turning a modest junior player into one of the greatest athletes in tennis history.

Historically, tennis has often seen players struggle to maintain peak form past their early 30s. Yet Djokovic’s approach to fitness, nutrition, and mental strength has revolutionized what is possible in the sport. He was one of the first elite athletes to adopt a gluten-free diet and emphasizes mindfulness and recovery—elements that have played a critical role in his longevity. His practice of mental resilience and physical care has influenced many younger players seeking to extend their careers in a sport known for grueling schedules and physical demands.

Off the court, Djokovic’s impact extends beyond tennis. His philanthropic efforts include the Novak Djokovic Foundation, which focuses on early childhood education in Serbia, reflecting his commitment to giving back and nurturing future generations. This blend of athletic prowess, social awareness, and leadership highlights the multifaceted nature of his legacy.

As Djokovic continues to serve ace after ace, the question lingers: how much longer can this tennis titan keep defying time? Will we see him competing into his 40s, challenging the boundaries of human potential as LeBron James, Ronaldo, and Brady have done in their respective sports? While the future is uncertain, what remains undeniable is Djokovic’s remarkable ability to inspire—not only through trophies and records but through his relentless pursuit of greatness, innovation, and positive change.

Novak Djokovic’s journey is a masterclass in resilience and ambition, a testament to the human spirit’s capacity to grow, adapt, and inspire. His story feels like an ongoing epic, suggesting that the best chapters might still be unfolding right before our eyes. For fans worldwide, Djokovic is more than just a champion—he is a beacon of what dedication and passion can achieve, proving that greatness knows no age.