World No. 1 Novak Djokovic plans to play on in his 40s, much like NFL's Tom Brady

Serbia's Novak Djokovic, who won a record 24 Grand Slams, may have turned 36, but he has no intention of retiring. Djokovic, who came to play an exhibition match with Spain's Carlos Alcaraz, made it clear that his intention is to continue playing till the age of 40.

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Novak Djokovic idolizes American footballer Tom Brady, who retired at the age of 45. "Tom Brady is a great example of a champion in his sport and someone that has had such a great career and longevity. He has put a lot of hours and a lot of time into self-care, into recovery, into making sure that in a way every aspect of his body and mind is covered so that he can have a long-lasting, successful career." Djokovic said at an exhibition event in Saudi Arabia.

In the year 2023, Novak Djokovic won a total of 03 Grand Slams, 2 Masters 1000, ATP 250 and ATP Finals. "I feel great in my own body right now and I've been playing some really high-quality tennis," the top-ranked Serb said, adding that "2023 was one of the best seasons I've had in my life. And why stop while you're still playing great? So I'll keep going and take it one year (at a time), one by one, and see how far I go."

46-year-old Tom Brady is one of the great players of the National Football League (NFL). Brady, who will retire in 2023, played 23 consecutive seasons in the NFL and during this time he played for the New England Patriots team for 20 years. "I know him personally as well, and I learned a lot from him, from his example, and hopefully I can have a career that goes up to 40 or maybe even beyond -- let's see." Novak Djokovic added.

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While Roger Federer has retired and Rafael Nadal missed nearly all of 2023 with injuries, Novak Djokovic is hoping he has several more years left at the top. After all, Brady, who was on hand in Djokovic's box to watch the Serbian star win this year's French Open final, won his seventh Super Bowl ring at the age of 43.