WATCH: Novak Djokovic’s heartfelt tribute to Rohan Bopanna as pair celebrate unique rankings feat

Shahida Jacobs
Novak Djokovic in action
Novak Djokovic of Serbia during his tennis match

Novak Djokovic joined Rohan Bopanna in the record books as they are now the oldest world No 1s in ATP Tour history and both have given insight into their ability to stay at the top despite their age.

This past Sunday was the big day for Djokovic as he bumped Roger Federer into second place as he was 36 years, 10 months and 16 days – one day older than Federer when he was last No 1 – and he will continue to build on that record as he is set to stay No 1 for another couple of weeks.

Bopanna, meanwhile, set his record in January as he became the oldest doubles world No 1 aged 43, but that record has been extended as he is currently 44 years, 1 month and five days.

The two “golden oldies” met up at the Monte Carlo ahead of their appearances at the ATP Masters 1000 event and discussed their unique feats.

“We were just saying that we are combined 80 years old. It’s not really balanced. It’s not 50-50. He brings more years to the 80. But I think we’re still going strong,” 24-time Grand Slam winner Djokovic – who is just over a month shy of turning 37 – joked.

READ MORE: The 9 oldest No 1s in men’s tennis: Novak Djokovic breaks Roger Federer’s record

Bopanna chipped in, saying: “I think that tennis teaches so many wonderful things. And I think experience wins and that is where we’ve got it.”

Tennis great Djokovic added: “I’d say experience, but also still being devoted and dedicated to the game every single day. I see him in the gym countless hours, also in the physio a bit more than before.

“But it’s amazing to share the Tour with you for so many years and what an incredible moment to be the oldest No 1 in singles and doubles at the same time.

“It’s great for Serbian tennis and Indian tennis and hopefully we can do something in India soon, we can play there. I really look forward to it.

“It’s a huge country, obviously humongous population and to have tennis at such a high level in India is extremely important for our sport and you are contributing to that along with [fellow Indian greats] Sania Mirza, [Mahesh] Bhupathi and [Laendar] Paez, who have paved the way.

“It’s amazing. We are old, but gold!”

Bopanna said: “Level 36, level 44. India loves you, we hoping that you will be there soon.”

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