At 37 years old, Novak Djokovic continues to defy expectations, showcasing remarkable physical prowess on the tennis court. When asked about the secret behind his sustained athleticism, Djokovic summed it up in seven words: “It’s just a way of life.” This philosophy has been the cornerstone of his career, allowing him to remain at the top of his game even as he enters his late thirties.

Djokovic, who kicked off his 18th US Open campaign with a dominant 6-2, 6-2, 6-4 victory over former world No. 39 Radu Albot, revealed that his enduring physical state is not due to any specific secret. “It’s just a way of life,” Djokovic said, emphasizing the importance of a holistic approach to his tennis career. He credits his longevity to being surrounded early on by knowledgeable and passionate mentors who taught him that “prevention equals longevity.”

Djokovic elaborated on his lifestyle, explaining that his fitness regime encompasses more than just physical training. “Stretching, warm-up, everything I do early on in my life will come back to me later in my career,” he noted, highlighting the importance of a disciplined routine. Additionally, Djokovic stressed the mental and emotional aspects of the game, suggesting that finding the right balance between physical conditioning and mental fortitude is key to his continued success.

Reflecting on his journey, Djokovic shared that his commitment to tennis goes beyond personal achievement. “At the end of the day, this sport gave me so much,” he said. “Me continuing to play and giving 100% every time I step on the court is paying back to this wonderful sport.” This sentiment underscores Djokovic’s deep appreciation for tennis and his desire to contribute to its legacy.

Despite having won virtually every major accolade in tennis, including his long-coveted Olympic gold medal earlier this year, Djokovic remains motivated. During his pre-tournament press conference, Djokovic addressed speculation that achieving this milestone might diminish his drive. “I still feel the drive. I still have the competitive spirit,” he declared. “I still want to make more history and enjoy myself on the tour. I still hope to inspire many young people to watch tennis, play tennis.”

Djokovic remains focused on Grand Slams, which he considers the “pillars” of the sport. “If you don’t get pumped and inspired to play your best tennis at Grand Slams, it’s hard to do that anywhere else,” he remarked, highlighting his excitement to compete under the lights at the US Open.

Last year, Djokovic made history by becoming the first male player to win 24 Grand Slam titles after defeating Daniil Medvedev in the US Open final. This year, he has the opportunity to extend that record to 25, further solidifying his place as one of tennis’s all-time greats. As he prepares to face fellow Serbian Laslo Djere in the second round, Djokovic will aim to continue his dominant form and avoid any unnecessary drama.

Djere, currently ranked No. 109, gave Djokovic a scare in their third-round match last year, pushing the former world No. 1 to five sets before Djokovic prevailed 4-6, 4-6, 6-1, 6-1, 6-3. This time, Djokovic is likely to be more prepared, aiming for a more straightforward victory as he continues his quest for another US Open title.

As Djokovic continues to defy age and expectations, his dedication to his craft and his sport remains unwavering. With each match, he adds another chapter to his extraordinary career, leaving fans and competitors alike wondering just how much further he can push the boundaries of tennis excellence.