Novak Djokovic is taking inspiration from NFL great Tom Brady in his quest to keep playing ahead of the Australian Open.
At 36, Djokovic has entered the twilight of his career but is showing no signs of slowing down having won the AO, French Open and US Open in 2023.
The heir to his throne as No.1, Carlos Alcaraz, was the man that stopped him taking out all four grand slams with victory at Wimbledon.
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Speaking ahead of his exhibition match against Alcaraz in Saudi Arabia, Djokovic referenced the career of Brady – who retired at 44 from the NFL – when asked about future plans.
"Why stop when you are still playing great? So I will keep going," he told media.
"I know (Tom Brady) personally as well, and I learnt from him, from his example, and, hopefully, I can have a career that goes up to 40 and maybe even beyond, let's see."
"I feel great in my own body right now, and I have been playing some really high quality tennis. 2023 was one of my best seasons I've had in my life. I will take it one by one and see how far I go."
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Djokovic's praise of Brady didn't stop there, describing him as "a great example of a champion in his sport" having won his last Super Bowl with Tampa Bay in 2021.
"He has put a lot of hours, a lot of time, into self care and recovery, making sure that every aspect of his body and mind is covered so that he can have a long-lasting and successful career," he added.
Before attempting to defend his crown at the 2024 AO, Djokovic will feature in the United Cup in Perth when Serbia takes on China and the Czech Republic.
Throughout his career, Djokovic was won 10 Australian Open titles.
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