‘Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic figured out a hack prior generations didn’t.’
Tennis great Jim Courier has discussed how Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic all discovered a “hack” that was vitally important to their longevity.
The Big Three’s remarkable ability to remain at the top of the sport into their mid to late 30s has set them apart from previous generations.
Federer‘s career spanned from 1998 to 2022, with the Swiss retiring at the age of 41 at the Laver Cup.
Nadal, 38, called time on his 23 years as a professional at the 2024 Davis Cup Finals in November.
Djokovic, who will turn 38 next month, is still competing at the highest level as he is ranked fifth in the world.
In an interview on the Questions for Cancer Research YouTube channel, Courier highlighted the approach to tournament scheduling that Federer pioneered.
“I know Pete [Sampras] was really mentally fatigued at the end of his career, as was I,” said the former world No 1.
“It was a grind. It’s a good grind, but it’s a grind, with the never-ending calendar and tennis events, and it’s hard to know if Pete would have been able to extend his career.
