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Novak Djokovic Finds Inspiration In Kobe Bryant To Keep Tennis Career Going Even At 39

Novak Djokovic continued to defy expectations at 39, securing his seventh China Open title after Australia’s Alex de Minaur retired due to a groin injury. The sixth-seeded Serb, leading 7-6(3), 0-1, extended his unbeaten streak in Beijing to 34 matches, a remarkable feat that also made him the oldest ATP 500 champion since the category’s 2009 inception.

Djokovic reflected on the immense pressure that comes with his status, acknowledging that fans and the sport itself demand peak performances, even as he approaches his late 30s. He drew parallels to late NBA legend Kobe Bryant, emphasizing the responsibility of delivering his best for those who may never see him compete live again.

The victory marked Djokovic’s first China Open triumph in 11 years, following a challenging season that included a loss in the Australian Open final to Carlos Alcaraz. His path to the title included defeating reigning French and US Open champion Alexander Zverev in the quarterfinals, while Daniil Medvedev defaulted in the semifinals after falling behind by a set and a break.

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