Novak Djokovic was 20 years old when he won his first Grand Slam title at the 2008 Australian Open. Born on May 22, 1987, he triumphed on January 27, 2008, defeating Jo-Wilfried Tsonga in the final after turning pro in 2003.

Quick Facts

  • Event : 2008 Australian Open, his maiden major after semifinals in 2007 French Open and Wimbledon.
  • Path to Victory : Beat Federer and Nadal's dominance streak; first Serbian man to claim a Grand Slam.
  • Career Launch : Started tennis at age 4 amid Serbia's 1990s conflicts, topping European juniors by 14-and-under.

The Breakthrough Story

Picture a lanky Serbian kid from war-torn Belgrade, training in bombed-out facilities, dreaming big. By 2007, at 20, Djokovic stunned the tennis world with deep runs at majors, setting up his 2008 Melbourne masterclass. He outlasted Tsonga 4-6, 6-4, 6-3, 7-6(2) in a grueling final, launching the "Big Three" era with Federer and Nadal.

Fans on Reddit still geek out: one thread notes he was the youngest then to hit all four major semis, now the oldest too—timeless talent.

Age Breakdown

Tournament| Year| Djokovic's Age| Opponent in Final
---|---|---|---
Australian Open| 2008| 20 (born May 22, 1987)| Jo-Wilfried Tsonga

Trending Tennis Context

As of 2026, Djokovic's 24 Slams (record 10 Aussies) cement his GOAT debate status. Forums buzz about his longevity—at 38, he's eyeing more, unlike Next Gen stars lagging his age-24 dominance (3 Slams that year).

TL;DR : 20 years old, 2008 Aussie Open—iconic start to a legendary run.

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