As Djokovic's career nears the end, his unrivaled greatness stands out even more - ESPN

MELBOURNE, Australia — It's five days from the beginning of the Australian Open and Novak Djokovic has just emerged from the shadows of the Rod Laver Arena players tunnel for the first of his pre-tournament practice sessions. He strides to his bench and dumps enough baggage for a two-week vacation before lacing his shoes and deliberately pirouetting toward the net, taking in a 360-degree view of the court and stadium that have defined his renowned career.

For a brief moment, the unmistakable mischievous grin that has become almost a permanent feature of Djokovic's face is replaced by a satisfied smile, giving the impression to a minor media contingent scattered around the grandstands that he will be soaking in this fortnight even more than usual.

«It's a 20-year anniversary,» Djokovic proudly exclaimed at the beginning of his pre-tournament news conference, referencing his two decades of competition Down Under. «Back in 2005, it was the first time I qualified for any Grand Slam, and [I] played Marat Safin in the centre court. It was a pretty quick match for me. He later on won the tournament, but it was a very unique experience that allowed me to dream big and keep on believing that I can one day win a Slam. Three years later, I won my first Slam on the same court… just lovely memories. I always try to relive those moments.»

There's hardly a tennis rival Djokovic hasn't bested on Melbourne Park's iconic blue centre court. From his long-standing, epic rivalries with Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and Andy Murray to the brash, supposed up-and-comers of Dominic Thiem, Daniil Medvedev and Stefanos Tsitsipas; if they've held a racket, Djokovic at one moment in time has reigned supreme over them en route to a record 10 Australian