Who says you can’t teach an old dog new tricks? Veterans are dominating the US Open! For the first time in over four decades, three players aged 35 and above—Novak Djokovic, Adrian Mannarino, and Jan-Lennard Struff—have reached the Round of 16. Are these seasoned pros rewriting the rulebook?
At the 2025 US Open, a remarkable narrative is unfolding as seasoned veterans are defying conventional expectations and dominating the competition. While the spotlight often shines on emerging talents, this year’s tournament has seen an extraordinary resurgence of experience, proving that age is indeed just a number in the demanding world of professional tennis.
For the first time in over four decades, three formidable players aged 35 and above have impressively powered their way into the men’s singles Round of 16. This historical achievement, last witnessed in 1982 with Jaime Fillol, Robert Lutz, and Ilie Nastase, underscores a significant shift in the sport, driven by enhanced physical conditioning and strategic play.
Leading this charge is the legendary Novak Djokovic, whose unwavering commitment to excellence continues to shatter records. His consistent performance at the 2025 US Open is a testament to his unparalleled dedication, precise training regimen, and mental fortitude, solidifying his status as one of the greatest tennis players of all time and inspiring younger athletes.
Joining Djokovic in this elite group are Adrian Mannarino and Jan-Lennard Struff, two veteran athletes whose resilience has captivated fans. Adrian Mannarino, at 37, showcased incredible grit by reaching the fourth round for the first time at Flushing Meadows, notably overcoming a challenging match against promising American Ben Shelton, who retired due to injury.
Similarly, the 35-year-old Jan-Lennard Struff has enjoyed a sensational run, marking his first US Open fourth-round appearance. Struff’s path included significant upsets, dismantling the 11th seed Holger Rune and then dispatching the 17th seed Frances Tiafoe in straight sets, highlighting his powerful game and strategic prowess against top-ranked opponents.
These remarkable displays of longevity by Djokovic, Mannarino, and Struff are a direct reflection of advancements in sports science, recovery techniques, and personalized nutrition. Their ability to endure the physical grind of the first week, often outlasting younger competitors, speaks volumes about the extended careers now possible in top-tier tennis.
In contrast to the veterans’ triumphs, some rising stars faced unexpected early exits. Ben Shelton, a 22-year-old American talent who had an impressive season, was forced to retire from his match against Mannarino due to a shoulder injury, a tough setback for a player who had reached multiple Grand Slam quarterfinals this year. Frances Tiafoe also saw his run end at the hands of Struff, illustrating the intense competition at the 2025 US Open.
Even as these compelling narratives unfold, other top contenders like Carlos Alcaraz are making their presence felt. Alcaraz secured a decisive victory, showcasing his formidable skill despite a brief medical timeout for a knee concern, underscoring the high stakes and physical demands of the tournament as the second week progresses.
The 2025 US Open is thus not just a battle for the title, but a compelling testament to enduring talent and strategic evolution in tennis. The veteran successes of Novak Djokovic, Adrian Mannarino, and Jan-Lennard Struff are truly redefining what is possible on the sport’s biggest stages, inspiring a new appreciation for experience and sustained dedication.
