Novak Djokovic, the Serbian tennis legend whose name is synonymous with resilience and record-breaking triumphs, is far from ready to hang up his racket. At 37, the 24-time Grand Slam champion has faced a challenging 2025 season, marked by a rare trophy drought and a three-match losing streak. Yet, according to Thierry Guibert, CEO of Lacoste, Djokovic’s longtime apparel sponsor, the world No. 6 is eyeing an ambitious horizon: the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games, when he’ll be 41. This bold revelation has sent ripples through the tennis world, igniting excitement among fans and sparking debate about the longevity of one of the sport’s greatest icons.
Guibert, who has championed Djokovic since their partnership began in 2017, shared his confidence in the player’s enduring drive during a recent interview with French outlet L’Equipe. “Novak wants to go at least until the Los Angeles Games,” Guibert declared, underscoring Djokovic’s unwavering ambition. The CEO’s optimism isn’t just corporate cheerleading; it’s rooted in a deep partnership that has seen Djokovic clinch half of his Grand Slam titles while donning the iconic Lacoste crocodile. Guibert hinted at ongoing discussions to extend their collaboration beyond the current contract, set to expire in 2025. “I have no doubt that we will find common ground in the coming weeks,” he said, noting that negotiations are focused on the “type of renewal” rather than whether it will happen.
Djokovic’s 2025 season has been a mixed bag. While he reached the semifinals of the Australian Open and the finals of the Miami Masters, early exits in Madrid, Monte Carlo, and Miami have raised questions about his form. His withdrawal from the Italian Open without explanation further fueled speculation about his priorities outside the Grand Slams. Yet, Djokovic’s historic gold medal win at the 2024 Paris Olympics, defeating Carlos Alcaraz in a thrilling final, proved he remains a force to be reckoned with. “I still want to play in Los Angeles,” Djokovic affirmed after his Olympic triumph, a statement that now carries even more weight in light of Guibert’s comments.
The road to 2028 won’t be easy. Djokovic, who turns 38 later this month, faces fierce competition from younger stars like Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz, who are redefining the sport’s upper echelons. Injuries have also taken a toll; a meniscus tear forced him to withdraw from the 2024 French Open, and his recovery cast doubt on his Wimbledon participation. Despite these setbacks, Djokovic’s hunger remains palpable. His decision to enlist former rival Andy Murray as his coach for the 2025 season signals a strategic push to reclaim his dominance.
Lacoste’s steadfast support has been a constant through Djokovic’s highs and lows. The French brand, founded by tennis legend René Lacoste, has not only outfitted Djokovic but also collaborated on initiatives like the Etendart court in Clichy, France, which promotes youth tennis. Guibert’s loyalty was evident even during controversies, such as Djokovic’s 2022 Australian visa saga, when the brand stood firm despite pressure to cut ties. “He has contributed a lot to the brand,” Guibert emphasized, reflecting on their shared journey.
For fans, the prospect of Djokovic competing into his 40s is thrilling. Social media buzzed with reactions, with one supporter proclaiming, “This sounds amazing. I want to savour Novak’s career as long as he plays.” Others see the 2028 Olympics as a fitting stage for Djokovic to cement his legacy, potentially defending his gold medal and adding to his unparalleled resume. As he prepares for the French Open, where he’ll revisit the site of his Olympic glory, Djokovic’s focus is clear: to prove that age is just a number and that the crocodile on his chest still has plenty of bite.
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