Novak Djokovic turned 38 in May this year, a couple of days after lifting his 100th ATP title. Despite his age, Novak's results at the biggest events continue to show why he can not be dismissed as a fading force.
The Serb completed the quartet of Major semi-finals this year, with the latest coming two weeks ago at the US Open. The veteran pushed Carlos Alcaraz to the limits in the opening two sets.
However, the Spaniard claimed the pivotal points and bested Djokovic in set number three to emerge at the top. Yannick Noah reminded that writing off great champions has often proven premature.
Rafael Nadal was considered close to the end of his career many times, only to lift two Major titles in the first half of 2022. Novak's consistency has followed a similar pattern, with his name remaining firmly in the mix at every Major.
The unpredictable nature of tennis adds to the veteran's chances, at least per Noah. The 1983 Roland Garros winner reminded that Grigor Dimitrov nearly stunned Jannik Sinner at Wimbledon before an injury halted his run.
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It's a reminder that surprises are always possible. However, Djokovic and other contenders have to face two incredible players en route to Major trophies, with Sinner and Alcaraz sharing them since the beginning of 2024.
Wih Djokovic's experience and mental toughness, he remains a constantcandidate for the sport's biggest prizes. As long as he competes at this level, Noah places him among the Major favorites.
Novak's next challenge? The Australian Open in January next year, four months before his 39th birthday.
"Novak played a good match against Carlos in New York despite falling in straight sets. It came down to seven or eight points, and Carlos claimed the crucial ones. You can blame that on youth.
However, I have not forgotten that we often said that Rafael Nadal's career would be over soon. Yet he won two Major titles in 2022. As long as Novak plays, he will always be dangerous.
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You never know what will happen during the tournament. Grigor Dimitrov dominated Jannik Sinner before retiring at Wimbledon. As long as he remains at the top, Novak will always be a contender for a Major title," Yannick Noah said.
