Novak Djokovic added another milestone to his unmatched resume after finishing the season in the top-4 for the 17th time since 2017. The achievement alone is remarkable, leaving Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal behind.
However, the context makes it even more historic. At 38 years and six months at the end of the year, Novak stands as the oldest year-end top-4 player, taking the record away from Roger Federer, whose last top-4 finish came in 2019 at 38 years and four months.
Djokovic once again stopped the clock and presented longevity unmatched in modern tennis. Rod Laver, Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic are the only year-end top-4 players after turning 36.
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Even among these giants, Novak now stands out and tops the chart. This was his sixth season in the top-4 after turning 30, surpassing Rafael Nadal and Jimmy Connors and trailing only Roger Federer's seven.
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The Serb endured the challenges of an evolving, faster and more physical ATP Tour. The veteran pushed through a demanding schedule and fierce competition at the top to remain among the sport's elite well after turning 38.
Novak wrapped up the 2025 campaign with two minor ATP 250 titles. However, there were enough for more legacy and emotional joy that extends his love for the game way after achieving everything our sport has to offer.
Djokovic's ability to recalibrate, manage his body and provide his best tennis on the most notable scene kept him firmly planted among the world's best, leaving behind the rivals born in the late 1990s and early 2000s.
Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz are setting the pace, forging the new Big 2 and dominated on the biggest stage. However, Novak continues to prove that excellence can be extended far beyond traditional limits.
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The Belgrade native embraced all four Major semi-finals this season, joining Jannik Sinner on the exclusive list and proving everlasting greatness on different surfaces and conditions.
He also fought for the Masters 1000 crown in Miami and became the oldest Masters 1000 semi-finalist in Shanghai in the closing stages of the year. His latest record goes beyond another ranking milestone.
It reflects sustained hunger, discipline and competitive fire that have carried him through two decades at the top. Most of his rivals in the top-10 or top-15 were only kids when he secured his first year-end top-4 season in 2007.
Djokovic closes another season, with his longevity becoming its own storyline. It keeps evolving and rewiring the sport's highest standards. It's another aspect of Novak's greatness that separates him from everyone who has come before.
