Why Novak Djokovic may still have an edge over Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner

TL;DR

Novak Djokovic, nearing forty, remains a formidable opponent for Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz, showcasing his experience and skill despite a limited schedule.

Key points

Novak Djokovic is nearing forty years old.
He has a limited playing schedule.
Djokovic has won 24 Grand Slam titles.
He remains a tough opponent for Alcaraz and Sinner.
Experience plays a key role in his performance.

Mentioned in this story

Novak DjokovicCarlos AlcarazJannik Sinner

Photo by Clive Brunskill/Getty Images

Novak Djokovic is approaching his forties, but he hasn’t shown any signs of slowing down as he continues to take on the likes of Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz.

Despite playing a limited schedule these days, the 24-time Grand Slam champion still tends to be the toughest opponent for both Sinner and Alcaraz when it comes to the biggest stages.

Novak Djokovic’s potential advantage over Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner

Photo by Mark Avellino/Anadolu via Getty Images

Djokovic has beaten Sinner and Alcaraz 10 times on the ATP Tour and del Potro believes he could be buoyed because he’s now playing without pressure.

The Serbian star has won everything possible in tennis and he is now looking to build upon his magical career.

Speaking to La Nacion, del Potro said: “My friend Nole [Djokovic], if he’s in good form, like he was in Australia, is one of those who can break through that barrier between them.

“Novak has entered that stage of the race where he is to enjoy everything he did, without the pressure of winning everything he plays.

“Obviously, he is more aware than everyone of his physical condition, of how he feels playing tennis, of how strong Jannik and Carlos are.

“But it’s Novak, and his chances go up a bit when he faces them in the best-of-three matches. Knowing him, the only thing that keeps him interested is beating both of them at the same tournament.

“He has achieved everything he planned, including the Olympic Games gold medal, which was in an incredible context.”

This year Djokovic has only played two tournaments – at the Australian Open and Indian Wells – having yet to appear at any clay court events after recently withdrawing from Madrid.

Q&A

How does Novak Djokovic maintain an edge over younger players like Alcaraz and Sinner?

Djokovic's extensive experience and strategic play allow him to excel against younger competitors, even with a reduced playing schedule.

What is Novak Djokovic's current age and how does it affect his performance?

Novak Djokovic is approaching forty years old, yet he continues to perform at a high level, challenging younger players effectively.

What are the recent performances of Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner against Djokovic?

Both Alcaraz and Sinner have faced Djokovic in significant matches but often find him to be their toughest opponent on major stages.