'Scary' Novak Djokovic playing 'better than he has ever played in his life'

Tennis365 15.06.2023 10:24:33 Ewan West
Novak Djokovic French Open

Former world No 4 Tim Henman has declared it is "scary" that Novak Djokovic is playing better than ever before at the age of 36.

The 11-time ATP titlist also believes Margaret Court's tally of 24 Grand Slam singles titles will be the next goal on the Serb's horizon.

Djokovic defeated Casper Ruud in straight sets in the French Open final on Sunday to set a men's record of 23 major singles crowns.

The 36-year-old returned to the top of the ATP Rankings this week following his third Roland Garros triumph.

Court, who retired in 1977, holds the record for the most Grand Slam singles titles won by any player across men's and women's tennis.

Speaking to Eurosport after the championship match in Paris, Henman asserted that the current version of Djokovic is the best he has seen.

"So many facets of his game are better. He is hitting the ball harder, he doesn't make unforced errors, he is moving better than ever," said the Brit.

"When you break it down shot for shot, his drop shot is better, and he is comfortable coming to the net. I think he is definitely playing better than he has ever played in his life, which is scary at the age of 36.

"He's been very honest about these numbers. He was tied with Rafa [Nadal] on 22 and has now got to 23. In my mind, Margaret Court is ahead of him on 24 and I think that will be the next obvious target.

"He is very smart with his schedule and his career is defined by these four Slams, so it will all be about his preparation and the way he works up to these events.

"Wimbledon is only three weeks away, and he has to be a massive favourite there. With that burning desire, I wouldn't put it past him winning No 24 there."

Seven-time major champion Mats Wilander also gave his thoughts on the Serb's achievement and suggested he could win three or four more Grand Slams.

"It's unbelievable. We always spoke about, will it (a 23rd Grand Slam title) happen? He couldn't have done it without Roger [Federer] and Rafa pushing him," said the former world No 1.

"It's incredible that he can be injury-free, good every day, every surface. It's just amazing. He is so far from being done, it seems. He is a pretty heavy favourite for Wimbledon and the US Open. I would like to know where it stops because he could get 26, 27 titles."

READ MORE: Nick Kyrgios opens up about mental health struggles - 'I ended up in a psych ward'

jeudi 15 juin 2023 13:24:33 Categories:

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