Novak Djokovic was recently compared to LeBron James by Andy Roddick, who highlighted the remarkable longevity shared by the two athletes. According to the former ATP star, neither is as athletically explosive as they once were, yet both continue to perform at the highest level. Their greatness, Roddick noted, allows them to keep reinventing themselves and still find their best versions even as they move into the twilight of their careers.

Speaking on a recent episode of his Served podcast, Roddick emphasized how greatness in sports is often taken for granted. The former World No. 1 and 2003 US Open champion then pointed to LeBron James’ emphatic return to action after a month on the sidelines, highlighting the 40-year-old’s impressive performance in the LA Lakers’ 140–126 win over the Utah Jazz, where he tallied 12 assists.

“We tend to in sports, take greatness for granted. Last week, LeBron came back after not having played for a month and had 12 assists that night, that’s absurd.His 23rd NBA season, coming out, knowing how to be the best version of himself, is he the same guy that he was 20 years ago? “Does he have the same athleticism? Does he have that same toolbox? No,” Roddick said.

Roddick went on to compare 101-time career singles champion Novak Djokovic to LeBron James, noting that the way the 38-year-old Serb is operating right now reminds him of how the NBA legend is managing his own career. The American added that fans should expect Djokovic’s movement to look a bit sluggish at times moving forward, even as he continues to compete at an elite level.

“That’s what we are seeing with Novak. We just need to not take it for granted. You watch, and it’s like ‘Well, he’s not moving as well’, no s**t, he’s almost 40, obviously,” Roddick added.

“The reality hits me right now” – Novak Djokovic after his SF exit at Wimbledon 2025

At the 2025 Wimbledon Championships, Novak Djokovic reached the semifinals, mirroring his runs at both the Australian Open and the French Open earlier in the year. However, a concerning slip toward the end of his quarterfinal match left him physically compromised, and he was ultimately in no condition to compete at full strength against then–World No. 1 Jannik Sinner in the last four.

Following his straight-set loss to eventual champion Sinner, the Serb spoke candidly to reporters about the state of his body at age 38. The 24-time Major winner explained that he does everything possible to maintain his physical health, yet the wear and tear is finally beginning to catch up with him — especially in the later stages of tournaments.

“It’s just age, the wear and tear of the body. As much as I’m taking care of it, the reality hits me right now. These guys are fit, young, sharp. I feel like I’m going into the match with a tank half empty. It’s just not possible to win a match like that. It’s one of these things I accept and embrace in some way, deal with the reality the way it is, and try to make the most out of it,” the Serb said…