If we wanted to play longer in my era, we would have lightened our schedules," Courier compares his generation with the longevity of today's players

Clément Gehl

le 08/06/2025 à 11h23

1 min to read

Courier Djokovic Federer Wawrinka

In an interview given to L'Équipe, Jim Courier was notably asked about the longevity of many players like Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic, Stan Wawrinka, or even Gaël Monfils compared to his generation where retirement came much earlier.

For him, the financial aspect also comes into play, in addition to scientific advances: "Apart from Jimmy Connors, there weren't many examples of players having played as long in my era, so it was quite normal to retire in your early thirties.

Given the current context, modern training methods, and all the scientific advances in sport that allow players to recover faster, I find it incredible that these players are capable not only of playing at this age but also of maintaining a level close to their peak.

Djokovic says he doesn't move as well as before, but his sense of anticipation is so sharp that he manages to hide it. I find it fascinating to observe, just like the way Federer planned his seasons.

If we wanted to play longer in my era, we would have lightened our schedules, participated in fewer tournaments or exhibitions. But the earnings of today's players allow them not to have to chase after money, as we felt we had to.