"I think it’s mindset, really. Age is just a number": Novak Djokovic believes he is in his prime at 36, doesn't think of himself as old

For many experts and fans, Novak Djokovic is at the peak of his physical prowess, following an exceptional season where he clinched three Grand Slam titles (in addition to reaching the Wimbledon final) and secured the ATP Finals championship, finishing the year as the world No. 1 for the 8th time in his career. The 36-year-old tennis maestro was also named the ITF World Champion for the season.

Reflecting on his illustrious career, Djokovic recalled other notable seasons, such as 2011 and 2015, and drew comparisons with his more recent performances on the Tour. For 'Nole,' mentality plays a crucial role in his preparation to stay at the top despite being over 35 years old.

In a recent interview with John Wertheim on 60 Minutes, the 24-time Grand Slam champion acknowledged that 2023 stands alongside the best seasons of his career and that he is in his prime at 36: "I could say, yes. I was fortunate to have several primes during my career. 2011 was the first best year where I had a run of over 40 matches won without any loss. The first loss came, I don’t know, after 10 tournaments, midseason," the Serbian claimed.

"That was the first time I won three [Grand] Slams in a year. And I had several years where I won three Slams in a year: 2015, 2016. I had maybe 18 or 19 finals in a row. So those were the primes in my 20s. And now in my 30s, I’ve been experiencing some really good years, particularly ’21 and this year, ’23," Djokovic added.

According to the current world No. 1, age is "just a number," and he believes that mindset and effort are key to maintaining peak physical condition: "I think it’s mindset, really. Age is just a number. It’s a cliché, but it really is a psychological approach that you have to life, to age, to career and to anything."

"Fundamentally, I put a lot of effort into having a proper routine to prevent injuries and absence from the tour. I don’t see any limit in terms of age. I’ve surpassed 35, now I have to be thinking about myself as an old guy? I actually don’t think that way," ‘Nole’ concluded.