Nikolay Davydenko believes Novak Djokovic is attempting to ‘cheat nature’ by staying on tour longer than Rafael Nadal or Roger Federer. Davydenko is skeptical that the Serbs would be able to sustain their success for a long time. Nadal, the second member of the ‘Big 3,’ retired in 2024, following Federer’s departure. Djokovic is the only remaining player, and his age is showing. Despite starting the year as the World No. 1 player.
The 37-year-old finished at No. 7 and did not win any ATP titles. His lone big success was winning the Olympic gold medal, defeating Carlos Alcaraz in the final. In Djokovic’s case, the former World No. 3 was pleased to see him still doing well but doubted his ability to continue for another two years. Davydenko, a 24-time Grand Slam champion, expected an injury to limit his playing career.
During the conversation, Nikolay Davydenko speculated on why Novak Djokovic continues to play. The Russian believed the Serb aimed to demonstrate his potential for a lengthier career than Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer, who rose to prominence much sooner. Davydenko speculates that Djokovic may be considering playing beyond the age of 41 to surpass Federer. Federer retired in 2022, two years before Nadal, and played his final match at the Laver Cup.
Novak Djokovic’s Dominance Under Scrutiny
Davydenko said, “Novak tries to cheat nature, but he can only do it for a couple of years. We are not robots. The loads are serious, injuries happen. Let’s take any current tennis player as an example: they all had, have, or will have health problems. They all end their career because of injuries that limit us in our training.”
Djokovic has also taken extraordinary steps to increase his chances in 2025, including signing a familiar face as his new coach. Since the departure of Goran Ivanisevic in March, the Serbs have been without a full-time head coach. However, Andy Murray will join his camp for the offseason and the Australian Open. The Brit has known Djokovic since they were children, competing in junior events.
