Novak Djokovic marked a historic milestone at the Monte Carlo Masters on Tuesday, defeating Russia’s Roman Safiullin 6-1, 6-2 in a commanding performance. With this victory, the Serbian tennis star not only advanced to the next round but also surpassed Roger Federer to become the oldest top-ranked singles player in ATP history at 36 years and 321 days.
Djokovic, a two-time champion in Monte Carlo (2013 and 2015), showcased his signature precision and agility on the court. His next challenge awaits against Italy’s Lorenzo Musetti, who notably ousted Djokovic in the third round of the tournament last year. Fans are eagerly anticipating a thrilling rematch between the seasoned champion and the rising Italian talent.
Adding a touch of camaraderie to his monumental achievement, Djokovic shared a light-hearted moment with India’s Rohan Bopanna, the oldest doubles number one in history. Reflecting on their encounter, Djokovic joked, “I met Bopanna yesterday, and he said we have a combined age of 80, but he contributes more to that number than I do.” The exchange highlights the mutual respect and friendships that transcend national boundaries within the tennis community.
Djokovic’s ascent to this new record underscores his enduring dominance in the sport and serves as an inspiration to athletes worldwide. His continued success resonates deeply with tennis enthusiasts across Asia and the globe, reflecting the universal appeal of dedication and excellence in sports.
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Djokovic wins Monte Carlo opener, eclipses Federer for oldest top rank
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