Former World No. 1 Says Practically Impossible for Novak Djokovic to Win Another Major

Novak Djokovic might be the most successful tennis player of all time, but winning a 25th major title could be slipping away from the Serbian superstar.

Just two years ago, Djokovic looked unstoppable. He’d won seven major titles in his last 10 Grand Slam appearances, reaching that magical number of 24 majors.

But the 2023 US Open was his last big win. Since then, Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner have completely taken over, splitting all the Grand Slams between them over the past two years.

Djokovic isn’t giving up though. He’s still chasing that legendary 25th title, showing no signs of thinking about retirement.

Some tennis legends aren’t so sure he can pull it off.

Former World No. 1 Says It’s ‘Practically Impossible’

Yevgeny Kafelnikov, the former ATP world No. 1, recently sat down with journalist Saša Ozmo for Sportklub. His take? It’s pretty much impossible for Djokovic to win another major.

"Honestly, I doubt that he can do it. He is the greatest player of all time, no question about it, but competing with these young guys… Novak is not even 35 anymore, he’s 39 now (in May). Believe me, the body and metabolism don’t allow you to recover quickly enough or move like a younger player."

Kafelnikov didn’t hold back.

"Nobody can beat nature. A 39-year-old is simply too old to compete with a 22-year-old in peak physical condition. He can still compete in best-of-three events, but best-of-five… that’s practically impossible."

The age gap is pretty stark when you think about it. Djokovic is nearly twice as old as some of his main competitors.

But here’s the thing about Djokovic – he’s always thrived on doubt. Having people say he can’t do something has been fuel for his entire career.

‘I Have No Clue’ Why He Keeps Playing

Even Kafelnikov seems puzzled that Djokovic is still out there competing. The guy will turn 39 this year, making him by far the oldest player in the ATP Top 50.

And it’s not like he’s barely hanging on – he’s ranked fourth in the world.

That’s pretty amazing when you think about it.

Kafelnikov thinks Djokovic’s motivation comes from his fans. The Serbian has built one of the most loyal followings in tennis history.

"I honestly have no clue. I’ve said it before – maybe he feels too loyal to his fan base around the world, to the people who want him to keep going. And that’s fine. Hats off to Novak for that. It just shows his courage and dedication. But I really can’t come up with any other reason why he’s still playing."

The upcoming Australian Open could be Djokovic’s best shot at proving the doubters wrong.

He’s won the tournament a record 10 times. If there’s anywhere that would be fitting for him to capture that elusive 25th Grand Slam, it’s definitely Melbourne.

The question is whether Father Time will finally catch up with him, or if he’s got one more miracle left in the tank.