Professional tennis is more physically demanding than ever, with age becoming one of the sport's most unforgiving barriers.
However, Novak Djokovic has refused to follow that script!
Vasilis Eliopoulos, an emergency medicine physician, explained the Serb's incredible longevity and the ability to remain competitive ahead of the season when he turns 39.
ADVERTISEMENT
Even the greatest players typically shift into survival mode beyond 35, accepting an inevitable decline in speed, endurance and recovery. On the other hand, Djokovic continues to compete at the highest level at 38, battling against the rivals born when he was 14 and 16!
The question surrounding his longevity is no longer rooted in admiration. It's about understanding how such durability is possible after two decades on the highest level of competition.
From a medical and scientific perspective, Novak's resilience is not built on pushing limits. Instead, he tries to understand and respect them. The Belgrade native is not attempting to outrun time.
His daily routine has been reshaped to function in harmony with his body's evolving needs. While struggling physically throughout 2025, Djokovic kept his composure on the most notable and demanding scene to leave much younger rivals behind.
ADVERTISEMENT
His ultimate goal is to reduce wear, prolong efficiencyand sustain performance. The veteran will try to embrace another good run in 2026 and challenge the rivals born in 2001 and 2003!
The 24-time Major winner seeks stability in the core and joints, refined mobility and precise movement control from the foundation of his training. The ultimate goal is to maintain balance, absorb stress and respond reliably under pressure.
Coordination between body and nervous system is also very important at his age, so as recovery. One of the toughest elements to master at 38 is treated as a performance pillar.
After all, it's about recovering your body after a tough test, with potentially even more dangerous one coming in a day or two. That;s one of the main areas of Djokovic's efforts to remain competitive.
ADVERTISEMENT
The body would respond more efficiently when we sleep well and control evening routines. Breathing work and constant monitoring of physical signals allow Novak to maintain internal balance and remain focus on the challenges ahead.
Nutrition provides metabolic stability, with plant-based foods and the avoidance of sharp sugar fluctuations. Thus, energy remains at consistent level and reduces stress on the system.
Everything mentioned is crucial for Djokovic to maintain his incredible level at 38. The legend reached all four Major semi-finals in 2025, which is an incredible feat at his age.
He claimed two ATP titles and fought in the Miami Masters final. Despite a reduced schedule, the Belgrade native still finished in the top-tier of the ATP rankings. He embraced his 17th year-end top-4 season, which speaks volumes.
ADVERTISEMENT
Djokovic's longevity goes far beyond talent and desire - it includes intelligent management of the body and every aspect we mentioned. Novak will try to maintain his run at 39 and keep writing age records.
