Former world No 1 says ‘superhuman’ Novak Djokovic has ‘no limits’ and hails his ‘

Former world No 1 Jelena Jankovic has labelled her fellow Serbian Novak Djokovic “a true ambassador of our country” and hailed him as a “phenomenon.”

The 15-time WTA titlist lauded Djokovic for finding a “formula” that has allowed him to achieve “superhuman” successes as she described him as “amazing in every way.”

Djokovic has won the most men’s Grand Slam titles (24), the most Masters 1000 titles (40), and the most ATP Finals titles (seven). The 36-year-old has also finished the most seasons as the ATP world No 1 (eight) and spent the most weeks as world No 1 (418).

The Serbian claimed seven titles, including three majors, during an incredible 2023 campaign. This was the fourth season in his career where he won three of the four Grand Slams, following 2011, 2015 and 2021.

The world No 1 is yet to win a title this year, having lost to Italians Jannik Sinner and Luca Nardi at the Australian Open and Indian Wells Masters respectively.

In an interview with Sport Klub, Jankovic, a 2008 US Open runner-up, discussed the longevity of Djokovic and his dedication to his career.

“Novak is a phenomenon, he invests a lot in nutrition, especially his team. Everything he invested in himself and his loved ones returned to him many times over,” the Serbian said.

“That’s why I always emphasise how important it is to respect your body. Life is short and the sports journey is only part of that journey. It is hard to imagine what the athlete’s body goes through during travel, time zone changes and numerous matches.

But Novak has found a formula that allows all that. He is amazing in every way. There are no limits for him.

“Sometimes we talk, and I regularly congratulate him on his successes, which in my opinion are superhuman. He is a true ambassador of our country, he broke almost all records. I want him to enjoy his career with his family for the rest of his life.”

The 39-year-old, who retired in 2022 having last played in 2017, also revealed she would not trade being world No 1 for winning a Grand Slam title.

“Never. Being No 1 in the world is the most anyone can achieve in tennis. I dreamed of it as a child. Being the best in the world is a great feat, while the Grand Slam can be won by the 50th or 100th tennis player in the world,” Jankovic said.

“Of course, I would have liked to have won some cup of the big four. But most often I was prevented by Justine Henin, who I had on my knees several times but always got out.”