Novak Djokovic, the Serbian tennis legend with 24 Grand Slam titles, continues to chase history as he aims to surpass Margaret Court’s record and become the oldest player to win a major in the Open Era. At 38, Djokovic’s pursuit of a 25th Grand Slam at the 2025 US Open has sparked debate about his place in tennis history, with some speculating that this milestone is his ultimate goal. However, American sports journalist Steve Flink has dismissed the notion that overtaking Court is Djokovic’s primary motivation, arguing instead that his legacy was cemented long ago by surpassing rivals Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal. As Djokovic prepares for the hard-court season, his journey remains a compelling saga of resilience, ambition, and unparalleled achievement.
Djokovic’s 2025 season has been a testament to his enduring greatness, though not without challenges. After securing Olympic gold in Paris last year, he set his sights on the 2024 US Open, only to exit in the first week, still recovering from the physical and emotional toll of the Olympics. This year, he reached the semifinals at the Australian Open, Roland Garros, and Wimbledon, falling to Jannik Sinner in the latter and to Alexander Zverev in Melbourne via a walkover due to injury. Despite these setbacks, Djokovic’s competitive fire burns bright. “I don’t think that will change anything in terms of the historian’s perception over where he belongs in the all-time ladder,” he said, reflecting on his pursuit of the 25th title. For Djokovic, the focus remains on performing at his best, not just chasing records.
Flink, a respected voice in tennis journalism, offered a nuanced perspective on Djokovic’s ambitions during an interview on the YouTube channel hosted by Gill Gross. He argued that Djokovic’s true goal was always to outshine Federer and Nadal, a feat he accomplished by becoming the male leader in Grand Slam titles with 24, compared to Nadal’s 22 and Federer’s 20. “My point is that I think if Novak would just reflect a little bit and realize the record he was always chasing was to beat Nadal and Federer and be the male leader,” Flink stated. “And then suddenly it became a different discussion about how he has surpassed them but could he surpass Margaret Court? I honestly don’t think he needs that 25th.” For Flink, Djokovic’s 100th career title in Geneva last year was a significant milestone, but the Court record is less critical to his legacy than his dominance over his contemporaries.
Djokovic’s career is a study in perseverance. From his first Grand Slam win at the 2008 Australian Open to his 2023 US Open triumph, he has navigated intense rivalries, injuries, and controversies, including his high-profile visa saga in Australia in 2022. His ability to compete at an elite level at 38, outlasting younger stars like Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz, is remarkable. Yet, Flink notes that Djokovic’s body no longer responds as it once did, and the rise of Sinner and Alcaraz, who have dominated recent majors, poses a formidable challenge. “The two leaders of the men’s tour – Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz – do not seem willing to give Nole any new chances,” Flink observed, highlighting the shifting landscape of men’s tennis.
Despite these hurdles, Djokovic’s hunger for success remains undimmed. His Olympic victory over Alcaraz in a thrilling two-set tiebreak match at Roland Garros last year, dubbed “the best two-set match” by Flink, showcased his ability to rise to the occasion. Off the court, Djokovic has built a business empire through Family Sport, a Serbian company managing ventures like the Novak Café & Restaurant, and serves as a brand ambassador for UKG and RBI. His Novak Djokovic Foundation supports early childhood education, reflecting his commitment to giving back. These endeavors, coupled with his on-court achievements, paint a picture of a man driven by purpose beyond tennis.
As the US Open approaches, Djokovic’s preparation will be scrutinized. His decision to withdraw from the Toronto Masters, alongside Sinner and others, suggests a strategic focus on peaking in New York, where he has won four titles. The hard courts of Flushing Meadows suit his relentless baseline game and exceptional return of serve, qualities praised by tennis legend Nick Bollettieri, who called him “the most complete player ever.” Yet, the physical demands of a best-of-five-set tournament and the emergence of younger rivals will test his resilience. Djokovic’s ability to silence doubters, as he did after his 2023 US Open win, fuels his motivation. “When the crowd is chanting ‘Roger,’ I hear ‘Novak,’” he once quipped, embracing his role as the sport’s polarizing yet undeniable king.
Flink’s dismissal of the Court record as Djokovic’s defining goal reframes the narrative around his legacy. For the Serbian, the US Open represents not just a chance to make history but an opportunity to reaffirm his greatness against a new generation. Whether he claims that 25th title or not, Djokovic’s place among the all-time greats is secure, a testament to his grit, talent, and unyielding drive.
Leave a Reply