Novak Djokovic, aged 36, and Rohan Bopanna, aged 44, are reshaping the narrative surrounding age in the world of tennis, demonstrating that age is simply a number as they ascend to the pinnacle of the ATP Rankings history for singles and doubles, respectively. Djokovic achieved a remarkable milestone by surpassing Roger Federer on Sunday to become the oldest World No. 1 in ATP Rankings history, while Bopanna currently holds the top spot in the ATP Doubles Rankings.
In an inspiring display of longevity and resilience, Djokovic and Bopanna are defying conventional expectations with their continued success on the court. Djokovic emphasized their enduring passion for the game, stating, “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,” highlighting their unwavering commitment to excellence.
Acknowledging their shared journey, Djokovic and Bopanna underscored the significance of experience and dedication in their respective careers. Djokovic commended Bopanna’s dedication to training and expressed optimism about potential collaborations in India, a sentiment echoed by Bopanna. “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 amazing. We are old, but gold!” Djokovic exclaimed.
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Novak Djokovic & Rohan Bopanna become world’s oldest No 1
Despite Djokovic’s age-defying accomplishments, he enters the Monte-Carlo Masters with a mixed season record, aiming to rebound from early exits at the Australian Open and Indian Wells. With determination to break through his quarter-final barrier at the ATP Masters 1000 tournament, Djokovic sets his sights on capturing his first championship of the season.
Meanwhile, in the doubles arena, Bopanna and partner Matthew Ebden continue to assert their dominance, eyeing their third triumph of the season after victories at the Australian Open and the Miami Open. As they lead the doubles field with confidence, Bopanna exemplifies that age is indeed no impediment to success on the ATP tour.