Djokovic at 37: Can He Still Win Grand Slams in a New Era of Tennis?

MONTE CARLO – Competing at the top level of tennis in your late 30s is no easy task.

Just a decade ago, even participating in elite tournaments at that age seemed miraculous. But with modern advancements in fitness, nutrition, and recovery, staying competitive has become more achievable. Still, winning the sport’s biggest prizes remains a massive challenge.

Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal were 36 and 35, respectively, when they captured their final Grand Slam titles. Novak Djokovic matched that feat at age 36, winning his record-tying 24th major at the 2023 US Open. At 37, he finally secured the elusive Olympic gold last summer, completing his trophy cabinet.

Now, as Djokovic begins the clay-court season with his 38th birthday around the corner, he understands better than anyone the physical and mental toll of five-set Grand Slam battles.

Part of the challenge is the new generation. Rising stars Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz have claimed five of the last seven majors, reshaping the landscape. For Djokovic, age brings inevitable setbacks—like the hamstring injury that ended his Australian Open run in January and the eye infection that hindered him during the Miami final last month.

Off-court responsibilities have also grown. With his children now aged 10 and 7, balancing tennis and family life has become increasingly complex.

"I'm trying to find a balance," Djokovic said at the Monte Carlo Masters on Sunday, still showing signs of the recent infection. "I’m looking for that equilibrium between my professional and personal life—staying motivated not just for tournaments but for the daily grind, the practice sessions. It’s definitely tougher now than earlier in my career."

Despite the challenges, Djokovic's performance in Miami was a reminder of his enduring greatness. He reached the final without dropping a set and lost only in two tight tiebreaks—clearly still capable of competing at the highest level.

“When I’m playing like that, it gives me energy and motivation to keep going,” he said. “Of course, when you lose early, that’s when doubts creep in, when those inner voices get louder, questioning everything. But I felt joy in Miami, and that performance gave me a boost.”

Now turning his focus to clay, Djokovic is realistic about his chances in Monte Carlo.

“I haven’t had much time to adjust to this surface, so my expectations are not high here. I’m just aiming to get as many matches as possible under my belt and peak later in the season—especially in Paris.”

This week in Monte Carlo, Djokovic is being supported by his brother Marko, while Andy Murray takes a break from coaching after joining him in Indian Wells and Miami. He’ll face Chile’s Alejandro Tabilo in the opening round—a player who stunned him in Rome last year.

As for retirement, Djokovic isn’t planning on leaving anytime soon. When asked if a 25th Grand Slam title—perhaps also his 100th career title—would prompt him to walk away at the top, he responded with clarity:

“No, I don’t think so. You never know, but I still feel I have gas left in the tank. I’ve shown I can still compete at a high level, and that keeps me going. Sure, some people think I should have retired after the Olympic gold, but I’m not done yet.”

He added with a smile, “If you tell me I’ll win my 100th title at a Slam this year, I’ll take that deal right now. But it’s a huge mountain to climb, so let’s stay humble and hope for the best.”

For now, those inner voices are quiet. “At least when it comes to tennis,” Djokovic said. “For everything else… not as much. But tennis and I—we’re on good terms.”