Novak Djokovic celebrated his 101st ATP title in Athens last week like it was a Major trophy. Justine Henin believes the legend's hunt for a record-extending 25th Major crown has entered a different phase.
As she noted, passion and emotion now drive Novak more than sheer ambition well after conquering everything our sport had to offer. The Belgian stated the obvious.
With Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner emerging as dominant forces and sharing the previous eight Major tournament, the challenge for Djokovic has become more complex than ever, considering their form and his age.
Unless somethingunexpected shifts the balance and turns the tables in the draw, Justine feels Novak's Major chances may depend on rare windows of opportunity rather than sustained dominance.
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However, Henin observes Djokovic and acknowledges something deeper than stats and cold numbers, those he already rules. Novak's recent triumph at the ATP 250 event in Athens offered a glimpse into what keeps the 38-year-old motivated at this stage of his career.
Instead of treating it as routine, the Serb celebrated with genuine delight in front of his family and the crowd that came to support him. The legend shared his emotions with the spectators and soaked up every moment of connection.
Soon after, he easily withdrew from the ATP Finals in Turin for the second straight year and sent a clear message that he only wants to play the events where he feels good, especially physically.
Justine recognized Novak's enduring love for the game and the face he draws joy and motivation from the purity of competition itself. Djokovic will give everything to lift another Major trophy and extend his incredible legacy.
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With or without that, his passion for tennis remains unmistakable. It's a reminder that legacy is not only measured in trophies. It also comes in the moments of happiness that make you eager to return to the court.
"You know, sometimes all it takes is an injury or a surprise. But with both Carlos and Jannik in the draw, it will be complicated for Novak to claim a Major trophy. He will let himself be carried away by opportunities here and there.
Still, while keeping his hopes of the25th Major title alive, Novak is also realistic. We have to realize that he is capable of finding joy elsewhere.
His celebration after winning an ATP 250 event in Athens really speaks volumes about his love for the game, his emotions and sharing the joy with the crowd.
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There was a whole story surrounding that tournament, but it shows that he is capable of finding things outside of Majors that would engage and motivate him," Justine Henin said.
