Drawing inspiration from NFL legend Tom Brady, Novak Djokovic recently expressed his desire to continue playing tennis well into his 40s. Djokovic is in Riyadh for an exhibition match against Carlos Alcaraz on December 27, which is part of the Riyadh Season festival. During an interview, the Serb said that he is inspired by his friend Brady and hoped to play beyond the age of 40.

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,” he said (via Forbes).

The World No. 1 emphasized that he feels fantastic physically and intends to capitalize on his body’s condition. Reflecting on his successful 2023 season, he expressed his determination to keep going and not halt his career anytime soon.

“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, and why stop while you’re still playing great. So I’ll keep going and take it one by one and see how far I go,” he added.

Tennis fans were delighted upon learning Djokovic’s plans for his future in the game, and they took to social media to express their elation. One fan proclaimed that they would not be surprised if the 36-year-old continued to compete until he could face off against his own children, as well as Roger Federer’s kids, owing to his brilliant physical fitness.

“Wouldn’t be shocked if he lasts long enough to play against his kids and even Federer’s kids,” the fan posted on Reddit.

Another fan said Novak Djokovic will continue playing tennis until his nine-year-old son Stefan becomes a professional player. “F*ck them kids until Stefan Djokovic goes pro. What a man,” the fan posted.

Here are a few more reactions from tennis fans:

Rogers dream way for his kids to see him play, Novaks dream is to play against his son one day.

Fuck em kids even when he’s 40.

If he plays like Brady (until 46) then that’s 10 more years lol So he has 3 more Olympics still.

Brady was able to get away with it due to the nature of football and him honing in his style to complement the advantages of being a quarterback. Djokovic doesn’t have the same luxury but I don’t doubt he’ll be competitive until his early 40’s.

of course he will play until 41 years old plus 1 day to break Connor’s record of winning a tournament at old age.

A light schedule should be crucial for that.

I think he plays IW next year, skips Miami, focuses on the clay swing and plays all Masters to prepare for RG and Olympics, plays Wimby, Olympics, Cincinnati and USO.