"If I was in his place, I'd say play me until you kill me": Connors believes Djokovic should lay gauntlet down to younger players to dethrone him
ATPTuesday, 25 July 2023 at 17:45
Former world number one Jimmy Connors has backed Serbia’s
Novak Djokovic to continue playing and challenging the younger generation despite
recent setbacks.
The 36-year-old suffered a defeat in the final of Wimbledon
2023 to Spain’s Carlos Alcaraz in a five-set thriller with a score of 1–6,
7–6(8–6), 6–1, 3–6, 6–4.
After that results, the conversation has already begun within
the tennis community about the change of guard as Djokovic is now in the
twilight of his career, playing a majority of it while competing with the likes
of Spain’s Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer.
However, Connors, who won eight Grand Slams in his career,
including the five US Open titles, believes that the Serbian tennis star should
continue and keep challenging the youngsters.
“Somebody put up a picture, I saw on Twitter, Djokovic,
where he was 40 or 50 years old, and he is still out there making a speech on
Centre Court of Wimbledon. And I loved it,” he said.
“Because, what are you gonna do? Let him play
until he is 50? You know, believe me, if that was me, if I was in his place
right now, I’d say, play me until you kill me. Because there’s only one guy
that’s doing it right now, and that’s Alcaraz.”
The defeat in London was definitely going to be a
challenging one for Djokovic as it halted his march — at least for the next 12
months — towards equaling Federer’s record of eight Wimbledon titles.
As things stand, the current world number two is the joint
second-most successful player in the history of the competition with seven
titles to his name, equal with America’s Pete Sampras.
Despite all of that, Djokovic remains the most successful
player in the history of men’s singles tennis in the Open Era after winning 23
Grand Slams.
Azeem Siddiqui is a seasoned sports journalist and data analyst with a strong background in both digital media and live sports production.
He began his journalism career working with partners of The New York Times and has since contributed to several leading international sports publications, including Fox Sports Asia, Calciomercato, and GiveMeSport. Since 2023, Azeem has been part of the TennisUpToDate team, where he has played a key role in sustaining the platform’s growth and ensuring tennis fans receive timely and reliable coverage of the sport’s biggest stories.
In addition to his editorial work, Azeem has extensive experience as a data analyst in live sports broadcasting—particularly in cricket—where he combines analytical precision with creative storytelling. He has collaborated with multiple production companies and cricket boards worldwide, delivering real-time insights and data-driven narratives during live match coverage.
claps 7visitors 7
Just In
Popular News
Latest Comments
- No one else would get away with this but these AMERCANS! It’s the US Open!! In America!! But sure, go off American ;)DaveyWavey08-09-2026
- WOW !!! Her comebacks have been intense. She's Baaaaack!
mandoist08-09-2026 - Don't lay this shitshow on "Americans". It is a long-running Ego trip with WTA allowing these two Elitists 'in need of a Camera' illicit Wildcards. If these two clowns want to "perform" -- then play the qualies.mandoist08-09-2026
- Here we go again…. Different rules for Americans! Especially THESE Americans. Yuck!DaveyWavey07-09-2026
- It almost feels like they’re on their own “Legacy Tour” by playing these events … but losing each one! No press = $$$ fineDaveyWavey07-09-2026
- Love to listen to Mirra. However, I'm worried about her eyesight if she thinks oversized lips is "pretty".mandoist06-09-2026
- One of the most amazing comebacks in a long, long time. It happens (and Keys shouldn't lose her crackers over this). If Madison starts playing Dress-up and walking out on court like some fantasy character with a Mental Problem... then she should really start worrying!mandoist06-09-2026
- STOP the "Look at Me" Tour now... and forever!!mandoist05-09-2026
- This article is SPOT ON!!!Rapunzel04-09-2026
- This article is SPOT ON!!!Rapunzel04-09-2026
Loading
