Novak Djokovic: The epitome of longevity and fitness in tennis

The Serbian legend holds the record for most Grand Slams win in men's singles.

Novak Djokovic, the Serbian tennis maestro has long been revered for his extraordinary longevity in the sport. Even at the age of 36, he continues to defy the aging process rarely succumbing to injuries that plague many athletes. He is gearing up for his 33rd consecutive victory on the Wimbledon grass whereas Andy Murray, a seasoned player of the same age faced a disappointing early exit from this year's Wimbledon championships.

One of the key factors contributing to Djokovic's longevity is his dedication to stretching. Hours before stepping onto the court to practice, he diligently engages in stretching exercises. This practice has not only enhanced his flexibility but has also helped prevent injuries throughout his career.

Novak Djokovic understands the importance of balance of physical attributes in tennis and his focus on flexibility from a young age has been instrumental in maintaining his remarkable physical condition.

Djokovic's slender frame often described as "pencil thin" also plays a significant role in his ability to evade injuries. Unlike some of his fellow athletes, he has managed to steer clear of age-related problems and withstand the wear and tear that comes with a professional tennis career.

To further enhance his flexibility, Djokovic incorporates practices like yoga and tai chi into his training routine. These ancient disciplines are known for their emphasis on balance, strength, and mindfulness. By integrating these practices into his regimen, Djokovic has not only honed his physical abilities but has also nurtured mental resilience which is crucial in high-pressure situations on the tennis court.

The Serbian tennis superstar goes to great lengths to maintain his physical condition. Djokovic is known to use separators between his toes, a practice that aids flexibility and prevents discomfort during long matches. Additionally, he restricts his liquid intake to water. His commitment to a gluten-free diet has also been well-documented and Djokovic even penned a book highlighting the benefits of this dietary approach.

While Djokovic's focus on flexibility and fitness is evident, it is worth noting that he puts tremendous effort into his training regimen even before stepping onto the court. He understands that in order to handle the intensity of his career and the multitude of matches he has played over the last two decades, meticulous preparation is vital. By putting in the necessary groundwork, Djokovic has managed to minimize the occurrence of injuries throughout his illustrious career.

In his bid for a fifth consecutive Wimbledon title and eighth overall, Djokovic finds himself on the cusp of equaling Roger Federer's record. Moreover, his tally of 23 singles Grand Slam titles stands as the highest among male tennis players in history which is poised to match Margaret Court's all-time record of 24.

As he marches into yet another Grand Slam semi-final (46 - joint most in Open Era), Djokovic serves as an inspiration illustrating refusal to let age be a limiting factor.

His fellow veteran, Andy Murray, recently bowed out of the tournament in the second round at the hands of Stefanos Tsitsipas. Such contrasting outcomes serve as a testament to Djokovic's exceptional longevity and unwavering dedication to his craft.