TURIN, ITALY - NOVEMBER 19: Novak Djokovic of Serbia celebrates to Jannik Sinner of Italy during the ... [+]
In 2023, Novak Djokovic won three of the four majors — including a record-tying 24th Grand Slam title — and his record seventh ATP Finals title.
So, what can the 36-year-old Serb do for an encore in 2024?
“You can win the four Grand Slams and the Olympic gold. Let’s see,” Djokovic said after beating world No. 2 Carlos Alcaraz and No. 4 Jannik Sinner en route to the ATP Finals title in Turin, Italy, his 98th career title.
Djokovic is also 11 titles behind Jimmy Connors (109) for most singles titles in men’s history — and five behind Roger Federer (103).
So he has his goals set up nicely for 2024 — and beyond.
“I'm ready for this challenge, I just think about getting to the big date healthy,” he said. “I know myself perfectly, I don't want to be arrogant, but I know that if I'm well physically and mentally, I'm able to do it. It also sounded unreal to win three Grand Slam titles this year. I would love to beat the record of titles won by Jimmy Connors.”
In 2021, Djokovic won his first 27 major matches before being overwhelmed by the moment and Daniil Medvedev in the U.S. Open final.
In 2023, he won three of the four majors, losing only to Carlos Alcaraz in the Wimbledon final.
Djokovic isn’t done for 2023, either. He’s in his 400th career week at world No. 1; Federer is second among men with 310.
Djokovic is hoping to lead Serbia to its first Davis Cup title since 2010.
As for the major count, Brad Gilbert has said that Djokovic “could win 5-7” more, putting him in the range of 30 for his career.
TOPSHOT - Former US tennis player John McEnroe comforts Serbia's Novak Djokovic as he gets emotional ... [+]
John McEnroe didn’t want to pick a number but told me this week that he could see Djokovic winning several more for a few years barring injury.
“It’s hard to believe that he’s still at this age playing at that level, arguably as good or better than ever,” McEnroe told me this week at a paddleball promotion in Manhattan.
“It’s hard to say, he could be one injury away or he could still win a couple for the next year or two at least — like one or two a year. You know, 28 or something like that is crazy.
“I never thought in my wildest dreams I’d see three guys that hit 20 [majors] and better.”