Novak Djokovic shrugs off Lionel Messi comparisons with humorous comment as 39-year-olds shine on the big stage

Last night, two of the biggest sporting talents in the 21st century showed that age is just a number as they stormed to glory. Novak Djokovic was involved in a marathon match against Felix Auger-Alassime, taking down the Canadian in a five-hour battle while over in the USA, a certain Lionel Messi inspired a brilliant Argentine comeback against Egypt in the World Cup. When Djokovic was put in the same sentence as Messi, the Serbian showcased his usual humour.

Despite being 39 years old, Djokovic was still able to compete at the highest level for five hours and 15 minutes in a test of mental and physical resilience on the biggest stage. Djokovic would prevail 7-6(10), 3-6, 6-3, 6-7 94), 7-6(4) to come through the longest quarter-final ever played at Wimbledon.

His fitness was once again showcased, keeping pace with his more youthful opponent while matching the quality of the number three seed, surpassing his level at times and revelling in the high pressure moments that saw him get over the line in scintillating fashion.

He has a daunting task in the next round as world number one and reigning champion Jannik Sinner awaits him in a rematch of the Australian Open semi-final, in which Djokovic won in a five-set thriller. The seven-time champion will hope that he can pick up another win over the Italian and boost his chances of clinching an unprecedented 25th Grand Slam title.

Over in the States, another 39-year-old was lighting up the World Cup once more. Messi would overcome an early penalty miss to inspire his nation to an incredible comeback against Egypt. From 2-0 down, the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner grabbed the equaliser enroute to winning 3-2 thanks to a late flurry.

He is currently the top goalscorer in the tournament with seven, ahead of some of the best strikers in the world playing at their prime in Europe's top leagues. He was pivotal in Argentina's World Cup title run back in 2022 and seems to be the catalyst as they look to defend their trophy.

Similarities can be drawn between Messi and Djokovic. Competing among a number of younger talents on the big stage and regularly rising above the rest. In Djokovic's press conference following the quarter-final win, a journalist made this comparison in a telling question.

"It's incredible to see Messi still scoring goals at 39. And you, you win after 5 hours and 15 minutes of play," he stated. Djokovic responded with a touch of humour. "I'd love to play 90 minutes like him, but..." he replied, causing the room to burst out into laughter.

Every win Djokovic claims at Grand Slam level gets him closer to not only breaking new ground by winning his 25th Grand Slam title but becoming the first ever to reach this unprecedented tally.

If he is going to get the record and secure an eighth Wimbledon triumph, then he will need to defeat the best players in the world. It does not get much tougher than Sinner.

Before that Australian Open win, Djokovic had lost the prior five contests against the four-time Grand Slam champion, last picking up a win at the 2023 ATP Finals. If he can make it two on the spin, then he will be the favourite in many tennis fans eyes to even further cement his name as a tennis legend.