Why Are Tennis’ Top Stars Performing Well Late in Their Careers?

By
at Internationaled.org

Published: February 20, 2015

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Rafael Nadal is back, grinding on clay at Brazil’s best tournament in Rio de Janeiro. Despite career injuries and capricious momentum, Nadal has been one of tennis’ greatest superstars the past decade. His desire and competitiveness are as fierce as ever.

What drives 33-year-old Roger Federer to remain near the top of tennis, even after his glorious sun sinks into the horizon?

Why is Novak Djokovic getting better while his challengers rise up en masse to pluck at his crown?

How has Andy Murray reenlisted as a major contender? Maybe 20 years ago, he would followed the Mats Wilander route from star to journeyman. After all, he had fulfilled his most important dreams. So why does he look like he wants to wrestle the kid next door for his lunch money?

Today’s top stars are more resilient and prepared to succeed at the highest level. Indeed, some of the lesser pronounced stars are still improving well into their late 20s.



 

Marat Safin and Lleyton Hewitt

Ten years ago, Marat Safin had scarcely blown out the candles to his 25th birthday before he polished off 23-year old Lleyton Hewitt in the Australian Open final. Both players had two major titles, spent time with the No. 1 ranking and seemingly had at least another half decade of great tennis to play.

Nobody knew that their tennis relevance had ended.

The mercurial Safin went supernova. Here was one of the most talented players of the Open era unable to summon up more desire and intensity. There would be no more outbursts, smashed rackets and intermittent vows to return to the top. Within two years he lacked motivation to stay on the tour.

Hewitt paid a different piper. Nobody would question his heart and combative nature. He could hit the streets and bump his slender chest into anyone that crossed his path. "Quit" had never remotely defined a minute of his career. I...
Article Source: Bleacher Report - Tennis

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