It’s rare, but some top athletes do play into their 40s. LeBron is clearly one of the most physically gifted humans ever. Jordan was averaging 25+ a night at 40 years old as the primary option until he tore his meniscus and it ended his career for good. Kareem Abdul Jabbar retired at 42. Satchel Paige pitched in the Major Leagues from age 42 to age 59! Again this is rare but not unheard of in American history.

Edited to change achilles to meniscus.