Djokovic inspired by Serena as he targets history at Wimbledon

Serbia's Novak Djokovic practices at Wimbledon

AFP | London

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Novak Djokovic is taking inspiration from Serena Williams’ sensational comeback as he sets his sights on a record-breaking triumph at Wimbledon.

Williams has returned to tennis at the age of 44 and will play her first singles match in four years when she faces Maya Joint in the Wimbledon first round next week.

The American legend has won 23 Grand Slam singles titles in her remarkable career, just behind Djokovic’s men’s record tally of 24.

Djokovic, 39, is chasing an all-time record of 25 Grand Slam singles titles and Williams’ astonishing return -- motivated by a desire to play in front of her two young daughters -- prompted him to seek out the American to discuss her comeback.

“Look, first and foremost, what she’s doing is inspirational and it’s epic. That’s what I told her. I always admired her career, her journey, her story,” Djokovic told reporters yesterday.

“For her to come back after years of being absent from the tour, two children later, and to give so much effort to, not just for her own satisfaction is remarkable.

“I told her that whatever happens, what she’s doing is truly inspirational for me personally, I’m sure for millions around the world.”

Djokovic set the Open Era record for the oldest men’s Grand Slam singles finalist when he was beaten by Carlos Alcaraz in the Australian Open showpiece in January.