Novak Djokovic has calendar grand slam in his sights – and who can stop him?

At the 2006 edition of the French Open, Novak Djokovic took one of the first great steps of his young career by reaching his first grand slam quarter final at 19. He had already beaten three seeded players, including the explosive world No 9, Fernando González, but greatness awaited. Djokovic stepped on Court Philippe Chatrier for his first quarter-final against Rafael Nadal, the 20-year-old defending champion.

It was not quite the longest encounter of what would go on to be a 59-match rivalry. Two sets in, Djokovic retired while trailing 6-4, 6-4 with a lower back injury. Afterwards, he said he had learnt from the match that Nadal was hardly unbeatable on clay and if his back had allowed him to serve properly, he would have had his chances.

“I think I was in control because I think everything was depending on me,” Djokovic said afterwards. “How I was playing, result was like that. Even with a sore back, I think I played equal match with him.”

Those comments led to widespread mockery and criticism and they helped frame the early narratives around Djokovic as he struggled with his body and retired in numerous high-profile matches.

Now, 17 years on, Djokovic has edged past Nadal in the all-time standings by achieving his record 23rd grand slam title at the same tournament and on the same court. In hindsight, his comments are testament to the unflinching self belief that has driven the 36-year-old all the way to his goal, even when few believed.

Djokovic’s physical frailty, which would hamper him for years, now contrasts dramatically with the unprecedented robustness it has taken to win a record 11 grand slam tournaments and counting in his 30s while still appearing far from finished.

The gap between Nadal and Djokovic had