Top coach explains why ‘best athlete’ Novak Djokovic ‘can play until over 40’
Patrick Mouratoglou believes Novak Djokovic is capable of playing until over the age of 40 because his body is “extremely young for his age.”
The renowned coach described Djokovic as “the best athlete” in tennis and declared that he has never seen a player at the great Serbian’s age in the same shape physically.
Djokovic claimed three of the four Grand Slam tournaments this year, while he also lost in five thrilling sets to Carlos Alcaraz in the Wimbledon final. He has now won 12 Major titles in his 30s and has a remarkable 12-3 record in Grand Slam championship matches since turning 30.
This is the fourth season of Djokovic’s career in which he has won three Major titles – a record in men’s tennis. The 36-year-old also achieved the feat during outstanding campaigns in 2011, 2015 and 2021.
The world No 1 defeated Daniil Medvedev in straight sets to secure the 2023 US Open crown last month – his fourth title at Flushing Meadows in a record 10th final appearance.
The Serbian is set to return to action at the ATP Masters 1000 tournament in Paris next week, having last competed at the Davis Cup group stage in Malaga last month.
In a video posted on his Instagram account, Mouratoglou hailed Djokovic’s remarkable longevity and the unparalleled way in which he has preserved his body.
“I haven’t seen ever a player of 36 years old that is in that shape. The fact that he’s incredibly serious and focused made him become the best athlete because I think he’s the best athlete,” analysed the Frenchman.
“I still think that he can go over 40. I’m not saying he’s gonna do it because it’s all also about motivation. Of course, he can get injured. Anyone can get injured. And I think his body is extremely young for his age. Extremely young. I mean, it’s quite obvious. You see him move on the court.
“His court coverage, his ability to recover – is the consequence of all his years of discipline, working every day with the best professionals and looking always for new techniques to improve.
“He is completely driven by – of course by setting records – but also making sure that his body is gonna stay with him as long as possible so he can achieve his goals.”
Mouratoglou, who coaches at the Mouratoglou Tennis Academy in France, has worked with Serena Williams, Simona Halep, Coco Gauff, Stefanos Tsitsipas and Holger Rune.
Djokovic will play either Miomir Kecmanovic or Tomas Martin Etcheverry in his first match in the second round of the Paris Masters next week.
The 36-year-old is looking to win a record-extending seventh title at the ATP Masters 1000 tournament.
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