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Is Novak Djokovic the Greatest Tennis Player of contemporary Era?

Yes but he will never get the adulation as Federer or Nadal.. which is unfortunate but it is what it is.
 
JaDed said:
Yes but he will never get the adulation as Federer or Nadal.. which is unfortunate but it is what it is.
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This is the typical silly statement everyone makes. Now that he has obliterated pretty much every Federer record and surpassed Nadal in the GS count, it's no longer about the stats their fanbases kept bringing up. It's now about arbitrary nonsense like who is more popular, who is more aesthetically pleasing and blah blah blah.

Novak Djokovic on his own - will inspire a couple of generations of young players. In 10-15 years time when there's a new batch of kids at the top, they will be asked who was your hero, shall we wait to see how many say Federer compared to Djokovic?
 
Novak Djokovic will replace young rival Carlos Alcaraz as the men's world number one after a routine win on his US Open return.

Serbia's Djokovic, who lost the Wimbledon final to Alcaraz, won 6-0 6-2 6-3 against France's Alexandre Muller in Monday's night session in New York.

Djokovic, 36, was not allowed to play in the United States last year because he was not vaccinated against Covid-19.

He has returned knowing another title will be a record-equalling 24th major.

Matching Australian Margaret Court's all-time tally is Djokovic's target and he made a statement start by breezing past 84th-ranked Muller.

"I started tremendously well, we started quite late but nevertheless I was excited to go out on the court - it has been a couple of years," said Djokovic, who will spend a record-extending 390th week at the top of the ATP rankings.

"In the second and third sets I dropped the level of my serve and I had to work for the points a bit more. Nevertheless I played great and I liked the level."

Having not started until 23:00 local time, the three-time US Open champion showed he did not want to hang around and only dropped eight points in a 23-minute opening set.

A smiling Muller raised both arms in celebration when he finally got on the scoreboard for 2-1 in the second set but the 26-year-old could not stop Djokovic from moving further ahead.

Muller offered more resistance in the third set before Djokovic won the final four games to wrap up victory in one hour and 34 minutes.
 
The_KING said:
Preach bro. These Djokovic fans act like Djokovic has dominated both Federer and Nadal at their best.

Like I said, Djokovic will go down as the goat, but things needs to be put into perspective.
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Djokovic leads in the H2H vs both players. This takes into account matches across all surfaces, in all conditions when they in and out of their prime etc etc.

Djokovic is the GOAT - that's the only perspective there is.
 
bones said:
Djokovic leads in the H2H vs both players. This takes into account matches across all surfaces, in all conditions when they in and out of their prime etc etc.

Djokovic is the GOAT - that's the only perspective there is.
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You actually quoted a post of mine from over two years ago. Seriously bro?
 
Numerous Grand Slam titles and consistent dominance makes him certainly one of the greatest tennis players of the contemporary era. However my favouite is Rogger Federer.
 
Cricket Warrior said:
Numerous Grand Slam titles and consistent dominance makes him certainly one of the greatest tennis players of the contemporary era. However my favouite is Rogger Federer.
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Same. Djokovic is the GOAT, but my favourite will always be Roger Federer.
 
US Open 2023 results: Novak Djokovic beats Taylor Fritz in straight sets to reach semi-finals

Novak Djokovic reached a record 47th men's Grand Slam semi-final with a straight-set win over Taylor Fritz at the US Open.

The Serb, 36, prevailed 6-1 6-4 6-4 on Arthur Ashe Stadium to continue his pursuit of a record-equalling 24th Grand Slam title.

Djokovic achieved his victory despite temporarily appearing to struggle with the heat and humidity in New York.

The three-time champion faces Frances Tiafoe or Ben Shelton in the last four.


BBC
 
US Open 2023 results: Novak Djokovic beats Ben Shelton to reach New York final

Novak Djokovic swatted aside another young contender in American Ben Shelton to reach the US Open final and move within one more victory of a record-equalling 24th major title.

Serbia's Djokovic, 36, beat 20-year-old Shelton 6-3 6-2 7-6 (7-4) to again close in on Margaret Court's tally.

The victory sets up a potential rematch with Carlos Alcaraz, who beat Djokovic in July's Wimbledon final, on Sunday.


BBC
 
Djokovic has demonstrated why he deserves the title of tennis greatness.

I personally consider him slightly superior to Roger Federer.
 
Andy Murray: Novak Djokovic's domination of tennis to continue

Andy Murray says Novak Djokovic is set to dominate men's tennis for years to come, with a younger generation of players still well below his level.

The Serb, 36, won a record-equalling 24th Grand Slam singles title with victory over Daniil Medvedev in the US Open final in New York on Sunday.

He has no immediate retirement plans.

"It's up to the young guys to be pushing Novak and looking to overtake him. It doesn't look like that's close to happening," Murray told BBC Sport.

"Novak's been an incredible player for a very long time, like Roger and Rafa, it's the longevity and how long they've all been able to do that for.

"Novak's longevity has been the greatest. He's played at this level for such a long time now."

Djokovic was beaten in this year's Wimbledon final by 20-year-old Spaniard Carlos Alcaraz.

Three-time Grand Slam winner Murray, who was speaking on the eve of Great Britain's Davis Cup campaign, said the wrong conclusions were drawn from Djokovic's defeat at SW19.

Murray, 36, added: "I said that after Wimbledon, everyone was saying it was a changing of the guard, but it wasn't for me.

"It was quite clear Novak had won two of the first three slams and was very, very close in the final of Wimbledon.

"He proved that he's the best player in the world again yesterday and like I said it's up to the youngsters to improve enough to take him.

"I don't think he's going to stop at 24 titles, but you never know how long it will last. Physically, motivation, whether someone like Alcaraz improves - he's an amazing player Alcaraz, he's brilliant, but to do what Novak is doing on a consistent basis is different.

"It's not the same as doing it for 15-20 weeks a year like Novak is doing, every time he steps on the court. I do think that Alcaraz will soon get to that level but I don't think this is going to be the last time that Novak wins a Grand Slam."

Djokovic is set to miss Serbia's Davis Cup tie against South Korea on Tuesday but is poised to play against Spain on Friday and on Saturday against the Czech Republic.

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Djokovic domination to continue - Murray

Andy Murray says US Open champion Novak Djokovic is set to dominate men's tennis for years to come.
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This is really another level of discipline. I might not like his personal antics, but his work-ethic is really on another level. Meanwhile, we have guys like Azam Khan justifying their weight. If you want to be the GOAT, you have to put in the work.


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World number one Novak Djokovic held off Holger Rune to reach the semi-finals of the Paris Masters.

Rune beat the Serb in last year's final to claim his first ATP Masters title.

Despite missing a match point in the second set this time, Djokovic clinched a 7-5 6-7 (3-7) 6-4 win to leave Rune's place at the ATP Finals in doubt.

Djokovic will play Andrey Rublev for a place in his ninth Paris Masters final after the Russian beat Australia's Alex de Minaur 4-6 6-3 6-1.
 
Novak Djokovic won a record-extending seventh Paris Masters trophy and a 40th Masters title in total on Sunday.

The world number one beat unseeded Grigor Dimitrov 6-4 6-3 in straightforward fashion.

It is the 36-year-old's sixth title of 2023, which includes three Grand Slam crowns and the Masters trophy in Cincinnati.

"It's incredible to be able to win it after quite challenging circumstances this week," said Djokovic.

"I basically came back from the brink of losing three matches in a row so I'm very proud of this one considering what I've been through this week."

Djokovic has been dominant on hard courts this season, winning 33 matches and only losing once.

Playing in his 58th Masters final, the Serb was hardly challenged by Bulgarian Dimitrov, ranked 17th in the world, who was playing in only his second Masters final.

The 24-time Grand Slam champion only needed one break to take the first set with Dimitrov, 32, hitting a lame backhand into the net at close range to hand Djokovic the advantage.

Djokovic was met with a wall of cheers and some boos from the Bercy crowd after serving out the first set, and smiled as he made a gesture with his hands towards the crowd asking for more.
 
ATP Finals 2023 results: Novak Djokovic ends year as world number one after beating Holger Rune

Novak Djokovic will end the year as world number one for a record eighth time after he beat Holger Rune at the ATP Finals in Turin, Italy.

The 24-time Grand Slam champion overcame the Dane 7-6 (7-4) 6-7 (1-7) 6-3 in his opening Green Group match at the season-ending event on Sunday.

Victory for Djokovic extends his winning run to 19 consecutive matches.

The 36-year-old Serb won three Slams in 2023 to become the all-time record-holder of major titles.

Rune, 20, who is making his debut at the event, claimed the first break to lead 3-2 before Djokovic hit back and went on to win the opening set tie-break.

Rune reacted well and continued his streak of winning a set in every previous meeting with Djokovic to level the game in a second set tie-break.

Djokovic broke immediately in the deciding set, but Rune was able to respond before the Serb broke for a second time and ended the youngster's challenge.

Djokovic is on course for a seventh ATP Finals title, which would make him the record-holder, having equalled Roger Federer on six last year.

Djokovic told Prime Video: "It took everything. I saw in the first game when he fired shots from the baseline, I knew it was going to be a tough night for me. I thought he played great. I played great in some moments.

"Overall, a win is a win. It was a very emotional win and a tough win knowing the significance of tonight's match. After a really terrible second-set tie-break, I think I played a really solid third set."

Earlier on Sunday, home favourite and fourth seed Jannik Sinner beat Stefanos Tsitsipas in straight sets.

Sinner put in a dominant performance to win 6-4 6-4, sealing victory with his ninth ace.

Greece's Tsitsipas, the 2019 champion, struggled to match his opponent and did not force a single break point.

"I was excited to step on court and opening the Finals is really, really special," Sinner, 22, said.

"I knew it was going to be very tough but I think I handled the situation well. I tried to stay aggressive and I am very happy with the performance.

"I am happy to start off with a win and hopefully I can continue with this intensity."

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Djokovic ends year as world number one for eighth time

Novak Djokovic ends the year as world number one for a record eighth time after beating Holger Rune at the ATP Finals in Italy.
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ATP Finals: Novak Djokovic semi-final fate uncertain despite win over Hubert Hurkacz

Novak Djokovic's fate in the ATP Finals hangs in the balance despite his win over Hubert Hurkacz on Thursday.

Djokovic defeated Poland's Hurkacz, a replacement for the injured Stefanos Tsitsipas, 7-6 (7-1) 4-6 6-1 in Turin.

However, the world number one will not qualify for the semi-finals if Holger Rune beats Jannik Sinner in the final group game later on Thursday.

Italy's Sinner, who ended Djokovic's 19-match winning streak on Tuesday, is guaranteed a place in the last four.

The 22-year-old home favourite, who will finish at least second in the Green Group, is set to become the first Italian to play in the semi-finals of the season-ending tournament.

Unable to progress regardless of the result, Hurkacz came into the match against Djokovic with nothing to lose and held firm on his serve throughout the first set.

The world number nine crumbled in the tie-break and Djokovic needed just the second of six set points to secure the opener.

However, in a 14-minute period where the Serb failed to win a single point, Hurkacz broke and consolidated to go 4-2 up before saving two break points and serving out for the set.

Djokovic regained control to secure the third set and the match, but he requires Sinner to beat Rune if he is to continue his bid for a record seventh ATP Finals title.

The ATP Finals features eight of the year's best men's players split into two groups of four, with the top two in each qualifying for the semi-finals.


BBC
 
ATP Finals 2023 results: Novak Djokovic beats Jannik Sinner to win title

Novak Djokovic won a record seventh ATP Finals title with a dominant victory over Jannik Sinner that marked another milestone in his memorable season.

The Serb, 36, who lost to the Italian in the group stage, avenged that with a 6-3 6-3 win in Turin, Italy.

He has set records in rankings and titles this year and played some of his best tennis against the youngsters - like Sinner - trying to challenge him.

"One of the best seasons I've had in my life, no doubt," Djokovic said.

"It's very special. To crown it against a hometown hero in Jannik this week is phenomenal," he added in comments to Amazon Prime.

"Tactically I played differently today than in the group stage against Jannik. Overall, a phenomenal week."

Before the singles final, there was British success in the doubles when Joe Salisbury and American partner Rajeev Ram retained their title with a straight-set win over Marcel Granollers and Horacio Zeballos.



BBC
 
Davis Cup: Novak Djokovic wants finals to move around the world

Novak Djokovic says the Davis Cup knockout phase "has to travel" around the world as he prepares for Serbia's quarter-final against Britain in Spain.

Since a revamp of the men's team event in 2019, the final stages of the tournament have always been played in Spanish cities.

On Thursday Serbia play Britain in Malaga, where the semi-finals and final will be held at the weekend.

"This is a competition that is played globally," Djokovic said.

"It shouldn't stay in one place more than a year."

Eight nations have been competing in the week-long event, but Spain failed to qualify.

The Davis Cup, which started in 1900, used to be played in a home-and-away format, often creating a partisan atmosphere but regularly missing top players.



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Davis Cup should not stay in Spain - Djokovic

Novak Djokovic says the Davis Cup knockout phase "has to travel" as he prepares for Serbia's quarter-final against Britain in Spain.
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Novak Djokovic told a group of British fans to "shut up" when they tried to drown out his interview with musical instruments after Serbia knocked GB out of the Davis Cup quarter-finals.

Britain lost the tie 2-0 after Cameron Norrie was unable to inflict a rare defeat on world number one Djokovic.

"You should learn how to show some respect," Djokovic told the fans.

"It's normal that sometimes fans step over the line and in the heat of the moment, you react too and in a way show that you don't allow this kind of behaviour,"

"They can do whatever they want, but I'm going to respond to that. That's what happened."

"I was trying to talk and they were purposely starting to play the drums so that I don't talk and they were trying to annoy me the entire match."


BBC
 
Djokovic says young rivals have awoken his inner 'beast'

Novak Djokovic turns 37 next year but the Serbian says his appetite for success will only increase with young challengers awakening the "beast" in him.

The world number one enjoyed an extraordinary 2023 by winning three out of the four Grand Slams to take his tally to 24, two more than his great rival Rafa Nadal and four more than the retired Roger Federer.

Djokovic did not have it all his own way, however, with 20-year-old Carlos Alcaraz denying him a fifth-straight Wimbledon crown in a thrilling final and 22-year-old Jannik Sinner dashing his hopes of Davis Cup glory.

"The young guys who are very hungry and very inspired to play their best tennis against me is an additional motivation," Djokovic said on CBS News program "60 Minutes". "I think they kind of awaken a beast in me."

Djokovic beat Alcaraz in three of their four meetings this year - including the French Open semi-finals where the Spaniard suffered full-body cramps - but the Serb said his young rival had become a real threat.

"He's as a complete of a player as I have seen in ages," Djokovic said, adding that he used his defeat in the Wimbledon final as motivation for the U.S. hardcourt swing, where he won at Cincinnati and Flushing Meadows.

Source : Dunya News
 
Novak Djokovic has been honored as the International Tennis Federation's 2023 ITF World Champion.

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Djokovic, Sabalenka named ITF's world champions​


36-year-old Serb takes his Grand Slam tally to 24 alongside Margaret Court with most major singles crowns. The International Tennis Federation (ITF) named Novak Djokovic and Aryna Sabalenka as its 'world champions' of 2023 after their performances at this year's Grand Slams.

Djokovic was given the men's singles award for a record-extending eighth time after winning three out of the four majors, the game's global governing body said in a news release.

The 36-year-old Serb took his Grand Slam tally to 24, matching Margaret Court with the most major singles crowns, and won the ATP Finals title for a record seventh time, finishing the year as number one.

Sabalenka won her maiden major at the Australian Open, finished runner-up at the U.S. Open and reached the semi-finals at both the French Open and Wimbledon. The Belarusian, who was pipped to the yearend top spot by Iga Swiatek at the WTA Finals, said 2023 had been "incredible" and was delighted to be named world champion. "I can't wait to get back out on court for the new season in January," she said in the ITF release.

Rajeev Ram and Joe Salisbury took the men's doubles award after winning their third consecutive U.S. Open title while Wimbledon runners-up Storm Hunter and Elise Mertens claimed the women's doubles title.

Source : The Express Tribune
 
Novak Djokovic on PTPA's main objectives

The Professional Tennis Players Association was introduced in 2020 on a sweltering August day during the US Open. It was the first significant player empowerment action in 35 years, or since the “parking lot press conference” that led to the formation of the ATP Tour.

That earlier revolt was led by Mats Wilander and John McEnroe; the more recent one, and the PTPA itself, was the brainchild of Novak Djokovic and fellow ATP pro Vasek Pospisil. The key difference: the 1988 rebellion was a push to take over the tour (mission accomplished), the PTPA mutiny germinated in a growing sense that the players had created a tour in which their voice is too often ignored.

“I don’t think ATP structure and system is helping players. It has been proven many times in the past that this system is going against players,” Djokovic said in 2020, referring to the ATP’s decision-making Board of Directors. The Board consists of eight members: four player reps (supported by a large player council) and four tournament reps. The tiebreaking vote in the event of a 4-4 vote belongs to the chairman of the tour, former pro Andrea Gaudenzi.

Djokovic added: “Various presidents and management tried to do different things over the years. And of course, some good things were done for our tour, without a doubt. ... [But] this is the first time after many, many years that players will have 100% their own association that will represent them in the tennis ecosystem.”

Source : Tennis.com
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Checking in on the Professional Tennis Players Association (Part 1 of 3) | Tennis.com

Our conversation with executive director Ahmad Nassar takes us inside the PTPA, and in a variety of directions.
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Novak Djokovic: Rafael Nadal can be Grand Slam threat on injury return in Australia

World number one Novak Djokovic believes Rafael Nadal will be competitive at next month's Australian Open, despite his injury absence.

The Spaniard, 37, a 22-time Grand Slam winner, is set to make his comeback in Brisbane this weekend ahead of the first tennis major of the year.

His last match was a second-round loss to American Mackenzie McDonald at the Australian Open in January.

The 2024 edition of that tournament begins on 14 January in Melbourne.

"I always expect him [Nadal] to play at his best, to be honest," said Djokovic, 36, who won three Grand Slams in 2023 to reach a record 24 for his career and overtake Nadal.

"Many times they've signed him out, they've done that with me as well. But we've proved them wrong.

"He's not a kind of a player that will come back to the tour just to play - let's say - on a medium level, play a few matches.

"He wants to win titles, he wants to be the best, that's why he is who he is: a legend of our sport. I'm sure that his training and preparation is done with an intention to win a Grand Slam."

Nadal has said that 2024 is likely to be his final season on tour, after needing surgery on a hip injury and slipping down to 670th in the world rankings.

He won the Australian Open in 2009 and 2022 and is a record 14-time champion at the French Open.

World number two Carlos Alcaraz, who played Djokovic in an exhibition match in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia on Wednesday, also believes his compatriot is ready for action.

"I saw some videos of him practising, he's 100%," said 20-year-old Alcaraz.

"I hear from other players that they practised with Rafa in these past weeks and they said that he's going to return to his good level. His top level.

"I think he's ready for great things this year as well."



BBC
 

World No.1 Djokovic taking it ‘season by season’​


World number one Novak Djokovic is hoping his latest trip to Australia is not the last, but admits that at 36 he is now taking it “season by season”.

The Serbian superstar is the king of the Melbourne Park hard courts, winning the Australian Open a record 10 times, with an 11th in his sights next month.

He gets his preparations under way in Perth at the ATP-WTA United Cup on Sunday after another incredible season that brought three more Grand Slam titles for a record 24.

That included another Australian Open, taming Greece´s Stefanos Tsitsipas 6-3, 7-6 (7-4), 7-6 (7-5) in the 2023 final. So dominant is Djokovic that he has won four of the last five Australian Opens with the only exception being 2022, when he was kicked out of the country for refusing to get the Covid-19 vaccine.

“I hope it´s not the last, to be honest,” he said of being in Australia again after his arrival in Perth and a late training session on Thursday.

“Coming back to Australia, I´ve always felt like I played my best tennis over the years and had great support. So I´m not sure, I don´t really have a plan (for) what´s going to happen next year. “I´m kind of taking season by season to see how far it takes me.”

“He´s not a kind of a player that will come back to the tour just to play -- let´s say -- on a medium level, play a few matches,” Djokovic said at an exhibition match in Saudi Arabia before heading to Perth. “He wants to win titles, he wants to be the best, that´s why he is who he is: a legend of our sport.”

Muchova to skip Australian Open over wrist injury

World number eight Karolina Muchova said on Thursday she would skip next year´s Australian Open because of a persistent wrist injury which already ruled her out of this year´s WTA Finals.

“This isn´t my favourite thing to share especially at the start of a new season, but unfortunately the pain in a wrist came back in the middle of my tennis preparation,” she said on Facebook.

“I therefore have to postpone the start of the season and fully heal my wrist first.” “It´s frustrating but I have to keep positive, recover and get ready for the rest of the year. See you in 2025, Australian Open,” added the 27-year-old Czech.

Muchova injured her right wrist at the US Open in September, where she reached the semi-finals. In her best season so far, Muchova also reached the French Open final this year and climbed the WTA rankings from 149th at the end of 2022 to the current eighth spot.

Source: AFP
 
Injury worries for Djokovic, Tsitsipas as Serbia squeeze into quarters

Novak Djokovic insisted Tuesday a sore right wrist which required on-court treatment was “not a major concern” as he led Serbia into the quarter-finals of the United Cup.

The world number one dropped a set in grinding past the Czech Republic’s Jiri Lehecka 6-1, 6-7 (3/7), 6-1 and required several visits from the trainer.

He did not take part in the deciding mixed doubles, instead watching from the team bench as Olga Danilovic and Hamad Medjedovic defeated Czech pair Miriam Kolodziejova and Petr Nouza 4-6, 7-6 (7/2), 10-8.

It put Serbia into a last-eight clash with Australia on Wednesday.

The result means that defending champions the United States are out, with one more day of quarter-final play in Perth to go before the event shifts to a weekend finish in Sydney.


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Injury worries for Djokovic, Tsitsipas as Serbia squeeze into quarters

PERTH: Novak Djokovic insisted Tuesday a sore right wrist which required on-court treatment was “not a major...
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Novak Djokovic beaten by Alex de Minaur as Australia progress at United Cup

Novak Djokovic was beaten by Alex de Minaur as Serbia lost to Australia in the United Cup quarter-finals.

World number one Djokovic received treatment to his right wrist in his 6-4 6-4 defeat by the Australian in Perth.

It was the Serb's first defeat in Australia since 2018 and comes 11 days before he begins the defence of his Australian Open title from 14 January.

Ajla Tomljanovic beat Natalija Stevanovic in the second match of the tie to secure Australia's victory.

They will meet Germany or Greece in the last four.

Djokovic needed treatment on a wrist issue during Serbia's victory over Czech Republic on Tuesday and had more treatment before world number 12 De Minaur broke serve late in the first set.

De Minaur broke again for a 4-3 lead in the second set and, despite saving three match points, Djokovic was unable to get back on terms.



BBC
 

Djokovic faces wrist injury, Alcaraz threat at Australian Open​

Novak Djokovic is once again red-hot favourite at the Australian Open as he chases an unprecedented 25th Grand Slam title, but a wrist problem and the emergence of Carlos Alcaraz puts his all-conquering reign under threat.

The 36-year-old from Serbia defeated Stefanos Tsitsipas in last year´s final for a record-extending 10th Melbourne crown then added the French and US Open titles to his collection in 2023.

But he lost a pulsating Wimbledon final to Alcaraz, who is a different player to the one that last graced the Australian hard courts as an 18-year-old ranked outside the top 30. The 20-year-old missed last year´s event with a hamstring injury and arrives this time as a two-time major champion, world number two -- behind Djokovic -- and the brightest young star in tennis.

Rafael Nadal, Djokovic´s long-time rival, on Sunday pulled out of the Australian Open with a muscle tear in a fresh blow to the veteran´s hopes of returning to the top of the sport. Nadal´s fellow Spaniard Alcaraz opted to skip a warm-up tournament for the opening Grand Slam of the year, making his 2024 form a mystery.

But Djokovic dropped a set to the Czech Republic´s Jiri Lehecka at the United Cup and then crashed to Australian Alex de Minaur 6-4, 6-4. It snapped a 43-match win streak in Australia and Djokovic will begin his defence with an injury cloud hanging over him, needing treatment on his right wrist through both matches.

“I think I have enough time to get myself in the right shape for the Australian Open and that´s what matters the most at this point,” he said after losing to De Minaur. “It´s all part of the build-up for the Australian Open. That´s where I want to perform at my best.”

Djokovic´s United Cup troubles followed defeat to Jannik Sinner at the Davis Cup to end his 2023 season, with the burgeoning Italian world number four another young pretender out to dethrone him. Djokovic has not lost at the Australian Open since 2018 and has a 20-0 record in semi-finals and finals at Melbourne Park.

“When I´m fit, when I´m at the peak of my performance, I can win any Slam or any tournament, I know that, I´m not afraid to say that,” said Djokovic. “It´s not a secret that I want to break more records and make more history in the game.”

Djokovic´s haul of Grand Slam titles makes him the most successful player in the history of men´s tennis, ahead of Nadal on 22.

If he wins again in Melbourne he will overtake the Australian Margaret Court, who won 24 majors in the women´s game. At least he no longer has to worry about Nadal, who has flown back to Spain for treatment.

The 37-year-old only made his comeback last week at the Brisbane International after being out of tennis since injuring his hip at the 2023 Australian Open. Nadal´s absence could spell the end of his career in Australia, after saying in Brisbane there was a “high percentage” that 2024 would be his farewell to the tour.

Source : AFP
 
Novak Djokovic Declares Wrist Injury Pain-Free Ahead of Australian Open

World number one tennis player, Novak Djokovic, has announced his wrist injury to be pain-free, setting the stage for his title defense at the Australian Open. Seeking his 11th Australian Open victory and a record 25th Grand Slam title, Djokovic is set to commence his campaign against Croatian qualifier Dino Prizmic.

Unfazed by Recent Setbacks

Facing a recent wrist injury during the United Cup, which necessitated treatment during a loss to Alex de Minaur, the Serbian champion has been practicing without pain and exudes optimism about his performance in the forthcoming matches. Djokovic’s potential to overcome adversity is not new; he has previously managed more severe problems in his last two triumphant campaigns.

An Unbroken Streak

Djokovic, who has not experienced defeat at the Australian Open since 2018, and has emerged victorious in every final he has contested at Melbourne Park, is on a 28-match winning streak. His powerful determination to win every Grand Slam he participates in is reflected in his unassailable record.

Beyond the Court

Off the court, Djokovic has a unique ritual of spending time in Melbourne’s Botanical Gardens, where he enjoys grounding himself by hugging and climbing trees. This personal practice reveals the human side of this towering tennis figure, illustrating the mental strategies he uses to stay focused and composed.

Looking at the Record Books

Finishing the previous year as world number one, Djokovic bagged three of the four major titles. His current aim is to surpass Margaret Court’s all-time Grand Slam record by securing his 25th major title. Given his current form, this feat is well within his grasp.

Tournament Changes and Notable Participants

The Australian Open has extended to a 15-day event to prevent late-night finishes, a change that has found favor among other players like Andy Murray. The tournament will also feature notable participants such as Stefanos Tsitsipas, Carlos Alcaraz, and Daniil Medvedev, promising a high level of competition.

Source: BNN

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Novak Djokovic Declares Wrist Injury Pain-Free Ahead of Australian Open

Novak Djokovic declares his wrist injury to be pain-free ahead of his title defense at the Australian Open, aiming for his 11th Australian Open title and record 25th Grand Slam crown.
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Novak Djokovic: What does 24-time Grand Slam champion have left to achieve?​

When asked how it was possible to top a stunning 2023 season, Novak Djokovic started his answer before the question had finished.

"Well, you can win four Grand Slams and Olympic gold," Djokovic said with a smile.

Knowing everything we do about the 24-time major champion, the likelihood is he was deadly serious about achieving that in 2024, in spite of the humorous delivery.

The Serbian great might be turning 37 in late May, and has won almost everything in the game there is to be won, but his insatiable appetite for success is not slowing down.

"It's not a secret that I want to break more records and make more history of the game. That's something that keeps on motivating me," said the men's world number one, who won the Australian, French and US Open titles last year.

With nobody having lifted more Grand Slam singles trophies and the Serb holding multiple individual records, Djokovic's place in the pantheon of the sport is assured.

So what other achievements will Djokovic be targeting in 2024 and the remaining years of his career?

Standing alone with 25 Grand Slam titles​

While it is already hard to argue against Djokovic being the greatest player of all time, he is currently level with Australian Margaret Court in the metric most easily used to determine the best.

Djokovic, like all top players, places the most emphasis on the Grand Slams and fine-tunes a personal calendar, which has been stripped down in his advancing years, to peak at the most important tournaments.

That move has paid dividends, with Djokovic winning seven of the 10 majors he has been able to play since the start of the 2021 season.

This dominance has enabled him to surpass the tallies of contemporaries Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and Serena Williams, moving him alongside Court and providing an opportunity to stand alone with a record-extending 11th men's singles title at this month's Australian Open.

Djokovic is understandably the favourite to win at Melbourne Park again, having not lost a match there since 2018.
"Being on Australian soil, I always play my best and feel my best here," said Djokovic, who said he is not feeling any pain after a recent wrist injury.

"I really want to start the year in the best possible way. It's important to have the right start and launch into the rest of the season."

Landing the Olympic gold which eludes him​

The raw emotions shown in his most recent Olympic defeats illustrated how much mental focus Djokovic has put on winning the gold medal which has continued to elude him.

Tears streamed as he walked off court after a first-round defeat by Argentina's Juan Martin del Potro at Rio 2016, while he was disconsolate following a semi-final loss to Germany's Alexander Zverev at Tokyo 2020.

If he lands the title at Paris 2024, Djokovic would become only the fourth singles player - following in the footsteps of Steffi Graf, Andre Agassi, Serena Williams and Rafael Nadal - to complete a career 'Golden Slam'.

Graf became the only player to achieve a calendar 'Golden Slam', winning all four majors and the Olympics in the same year, when she swept the board in 1988.

Asked about the upcoming Olympics, Djokovic said: "It is definitely one of the highest goals this year.

"It's going to be a very congested schedule, going from the slowest to the fastest surface in sport back to the slowest - clay, grass, clay, then hard court. Obviously, that's a very demanding, challenging stretch of the year."

Achieving a rare Calendar Slam​

For so long Djokovic has been trying to elevate himself above Federer and Nadal in the race to be deemed the greatest men's player of all time, and another achievement which would separate the Serb is a calendar Grand Slam.

Australian great Rod Laver - in 1969 - is the only man to win the Australian Open, French Open, Wimbledon and US Open titles in the same year since the Open era began.

Djokovic has come close several times.

Most notably was the 2021 effort when he won the Australian Open, French Open and Wimbledon, falling at the final hurdle when he was beaten by Daniil Medvedev in the US Open final.

Djokovic won three majors in three other years - 2011, 2015 and 2023 - and believes he can complete a clean sweep before he retires.

"It might seem unrealistic or impossible to some. It might seem arrogant to some. I don't know," Djokovic said.

"When I'm fit, when I'm at the peak of my performance, I can win any Slam or any tournament. I know that. I'm not afraid to say that.

"That mentality is not changing for 2024 or any next year potentially that I play."

Surpassing Connors to lead ATP titles​

Away from the majors, Djokovic has achieved even more landmarks which make it almost inarguable that he is the greatest man to have played the game.

Clinching the end-of-season ATP Finals last year ensured he is the standalone record holder of seven titles.

Another key indicator for longevity of success is the world rankings and Djokovic is approaching 400 weeks as the world number one - more than any man or woman in history.

There is one significant record he does not hold. American player Jimmy Connors won 109 ATP Tour titles between 1972 and 1989, a marker which has never been beaten.

Federer came close with 103 and beating them both could be a target for Djokovic, who has won 98 tour-level events.
"I have always the highest ambitions and goals. That's not going to be different for the next year, that's for sure," Djokovic said.

"The drive is still there. My body has been serving me well, listening to me well. I have a great team of people around me.
"Motivation, especially for the biggest tournaments in sport, is still present. It still inspires me to keep going."

Source: BBC
 
Until he took on defending champion Novak Djokovic at Rod Laver Arena on opening Sunday in Australia, Dino Prizmic had never played a Grand Slam match.

The 18-year-old Croatian qualifier, who was born seven months after Djokovic made his Grand Slam debut in 2005, made it last as long as he could. He unsettled the 24-time major winner before Djokovic finished off the match 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 6-4.

Djokovic has developed a record at the Australian Open that no man can match, with 10 titles here among his unprecedented career haul. He later said he’d been feeling “under the weather” for four or five days but credited Primzic’s talent.


AP News
 
He never gives up, never surrenders.
That is why he is the greatest of all time

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Novak Djokovic celebrated his 100th match at the Australian Open with a dominant victory over Tomas Martin Etcheverry to reach the fourth round.

Top seed Djokovic showed the best form of his title defence so far to beat the 30th seed 6-3 6-3 7-6 (7-2).

It keeps the 36-year-old on course for a 25th Grand Slam title, which would take him clear of the all-time record held by Australian Margaret Court.

"It was the best performance I've had during this tournament," Djokovic said.

He will next play France's 35-year-old Adrian Mannarino, who beat 21-year-old Ben Shelton in his third five-set win in a row.

Sabalenka wins in 52 minutes to reach fourth round

Djokovic has won 92 of his 100 matches in Melbourne, and is now the first man to play 100 matches at all four Grand Slams, having played 108 matches at the French Open, 103 at Wimbledon and 101 at the US Open.

The 10-time champion seemed distracted at times in his first two matches at Melbourne Park, dropping sets against Dino Prizmic and then Alexei Popyrin. He was also involved in a confrontation with a fan against Popyrin.

But tasked with Argentine Etcheverry, who had impressively brushed aside Andy Murray and Gael Monfils in the previous rounds, the Serb was clinical in securing a 31st win in a row at the Australian Open.

He lost just four points on serve as he dictated from the baseline in the first set, breaking in the sixth game as Etcheverry pushed a backhand long under intense pressure.

A dismissive forehand return winner earned Djokovic an early break in the second set and he took his opponent's serve again to clinch the set. At one stage the crowd on Rod Laver Arena gasped as he produced a trademark, stunning backhand winner on the stretch.

Etcheverry played his best tennis in the third set and forced a tie-break but Djokovic took the first three points of the breaker to ease through, wrapping up victory without facing a break point in the match.

"Obviously I'm pleased with the way I played throughout the entire match, particularly the first two sets," Djokovic said.

"He stepped it up and raised his level of tennis in the third set. We went toe-to-toe in the tiebreaker."

Source : BBC Sports
 
Indian Wells: Novak Djokovic knocked out by lucky loser Luca Nardi

World number one Novak Djokovic was beaten by 20-year-old lucky loser Luca Nardi in round three at Indian Wells.

Italian Nardi, ranked 123 in the world, had originally been knocked out in qualifying but reached the main draw after another player's withdrawal.

He hit 34 winners in a 6-4 3-6 6-3 win over the 24-time Grand Slam champion, converting match point with an ace.

"It's crazy," said Nardi, the lowest-ranked player to beat Djokovic at ATP Masters 1,000 or Grand Slam level.

"I don't know [how I held my nerve], I think it is a miracle, because I am a 20-year-old guy, and beating Novak."

Djokovic, 36, who was beaten by eventual winner Jannik Sinner in the semi-finals of the Australian Open, is yet to win a tournament this year.

"No titles this year. That's not something I'm used to," said the Serb, who hit 17 winners but made nine unforced errors.

"I was starting the season most of my career with a Grand Slam win or Dubai win. It's fine. It's part of the sport. You just have to accept it. Some you win, some you lose.

"Hopefully I'll win some more and still keep going. I guess every trophy that eventually comes my way is going to be great, to break the kind of negative cycle a little bit I'm having in the last three, four tournaments where I haven't really been close to my best."

Nardi, who was beaten by Belgium's David Goffin in the final round of qualifying, said it was an "amazing feeling".

"I couldn't even imagine to play a match against him, and now I also beat him," he added.

"It's such a dream come true for me. After the match, my coaches told me, Luca, everyone was cheering for you. Incredible. Against Djokovic, he's the best player ever.

"I will keep it, this moment, for the rest of my life."

BBC
 
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He is the Goat. Djokovic is good at every surface at every skill. Federer’s backhand, athleticism (not bad but Rafa and Djokovic are better), clay court game isn’t amazing. Nadal’s serve, hard court game. Djokovic doesn’t really have a weakness. And on top is probably the best server returner in the game.

The only argument is that Federer at his absolute peak may have been better than Djokovic on hard court/grass. Nadal took advantage of the age gap between them when they faced. We’ll never know who would have won at their peak between Djokovic and Federer on those surfaces. Djokovic had far better longevity though.
 
This was supposed to be the first year since the Covid-19 pandemic that Novak Djokvoic competed in the “Sunshine Swing” at Indian Wells and Miami.

Now the world No. 1 won’t be a factor in either tournament.

After getting upset by world No. 123 Luca Nardi at Indian Wells, Djokovic has withdrawn from the upcoming Miami Open.


Forbes
 

Novak Djokovic splits with coach Goran Ivanisevic​


World number one Novak Djokovic has split with coach Goran Ivanisevic.

Former Wimbledon champion Ivanisevic became Djokovic's main coach in March 2022, having worked with him alongside long-time mentor Marian Vajda since 2018.

Serb Djokovic has won a joint-record 24 Grand Slam singles titles but has made a disappointing start to 2024.

"Goran and I decided to stop working together a few days ago," Djokovic said on Instagram.

"Our on-court chemistry had its ups and downs, but our friendship was always rock solid."

Djokovic lost in the semi-finals of the Australian Open in January, suffered a third-round defeat by world number 123 Luka Nardi at Indian Wells this month, then withdrew from the ongoing Miami Open, citing a need to balance his "private and professional schedule".

"I remember clearly the moment I invited Goran to be part of my team. It was back in 2018, and Marian and I were looking to innovate and bring some serve magic to our duo," Djokovic said.

"In fact, not only we brought serve, but also lots of laughter, fun, year end no1 rankings, record breaking achievements and 12 more Grand Slams (and a few finals) to the count since then. Did I mention a bit of drama too?"

Croat Ivanisevic was nominated for the ATP Coach of the Year in 2023, having helped Djokovic to three of the four Grand Slam titles.

Djokovic shares the record for Grand Slam singles titles with Margaret Court.

The French Open, which starts on 26 May, is the next Grand Slam in the calendar.

www.bbc.com

Novak Djokovic splits with coach Goran Ivanisevic

World number one and 24-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic says he and coach Goran Ivanisevic parted ways "a few days ago".
www.bbc.com
 

Paris 2024 Olympics 'a priority' for world number one Novak Djokovic​

World number one Novak Djokovic says the Paris Olympics are "a priority" for him this year.

The 36-year-old Serb has won a joint-record 24 Grand Slams but is yet to win an Olympic gold medal.

Although he earned a bronze at Beijing 2008, he has lost the third-place match twice in his three Olympic appearances since.

"The Paris Olympics are very important - the Olympics have always been a priority for me," said Djokovic.

"But in the last three or four Olympics, it's not been possible for me to reach the later stages [the final].

"The situation is a bit different now. We are playing our first Olympics on clay. I want to be ready physically and mentally."

The Paris Olympic tournament will be staged in late July at Roland Garros, the traditional venue for the French Open, which this year takes place from 20 May to 9 June.

In between those events, Djokovic will aim to regain the Wimbledon title on grass but added: "It's all about building my game for clay courts.

"I want to reach my peak for Paris - that's where I want to play my best tennis. Anything else is a bonus, so let's see what happens."

Source: BBC
 
Novak Djokovic moved a step closer to his first Monte Carlo Masters title since 2015 by beating Australian Alex de Minaur to reach the semi-finals.

World number one Djokovic, 36, edged a messy second set which saw seven breaks of serve to seal a 7-5 6-4 win.

The Serb is through to a men's record 77th semi-final at ATP 1000 events, surpassing Rafael Nadal.

Djokovic will play Norwegian eighth seed Casper Ruud or Frenchman Ugo Humbert for a place in the final.


BBC
 
Novak Djokovic has won the Laureus World Sportsman of the Year award for a record-equalling fifth time, adding to the awards he won in 2013, 2015, 2016 and 2019.
 
World number one Novak Djokovic will not compete at this week’s Madrid Open after being left out of the main draw for the ATP Masters 1000 tournament on Monday.
 

Novak Djokovic weighs up coaching himself for final stage of tennis career​

Novak Djokovic has given his strongest indication yet that he may not replace former coach Goran Ivanisevic, and instead choose to navigate this late stage of his career himself.

Djokovic split with long-time coach Ivanisevic late last month and has been undergoing a trial period with compatriot and Serbia’s former Davis Cup captain Nenad Zimonjić, who was with him at the Monte-Carlo Masters a fortnight ago. However the 24-time major champion is yet to decide whether he wants to make that a permanent appointment. Speaking at the 25th Laureus World Sports Awards on Monday, he said he is weighing up whether he needs to replace Ivanisevic at all.

www.theguardian.com

Novak Djokovic weighs up coaching himself for final stage of tennis career

‘I’m in the stage of my career where having no coach is also an option’ says 24-time slam winner after Goran Ivanisevic split in March
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Djokovic struck by water bottle at Italian Open

Novak Djokovic was hit on the head by a water bottle as he signed autographs after his win at the Italian Open.

A video on social media showed world number one Djokovic falling to the floor after being hit by the object, which came from the stands.

Tournament organisers said the hard bottle had fallen out of the bag of someone in the crowd.

The 24-time Grand Slam champion stayed on the ground for a while before being helped out of the arena in Rome by security.

"This is not being treated as a deliberate act, but as an accident," said tournament organisers in statement reported by PA.

"A boy was calling out to get an autograph and the bottle fell out of his bag.

"Novak has undergone the necessary checks and has already left to return to his hotel. His condition is not a cause for concern."

A further video was posted that seemed to show a fan leaning over to get an autograph, with the bottle slipping out of his rucksack.

The incident happened as Djokovic approached supporters in the stands following his 6-3 6-1 win over France's Corentin Moutet.

He was signing a sheet of paper for a fan when the water bottle struck him on the top of the head.

Djokovic is due to play Chile's Alejandro Tabilo on Sunday in the next round.



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Italian Open: Novak Djokovic hit by bottle after win over Corentin Moutet

Novak Djokovic is hit on the head by a water bottle as he signs autographs after his win at the Italian Open.
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Italian Open: Novak Djokovic struck by bottle after easing to third round past Corentin Moutet​


Novak Djokovic insisted he was "fine" after being struck on the head by a bottle following his second-round victory over Corentin Moutet at the Italian Open.

Djokovic, still to win a title this year, recovered from a slow start to see off lucky loser Corentin Moutet 6-3 6-1 and move into the third round in Rome.

The 36-year-old suffered an "accidental" blow to his head moments after securing his victory and fell to the ground for more than half a minute, before returning to his feet - flanked by multiple officials - and heading to the medical centre at the Foro Italico.

A statement from the Italian Open read: "Novak Djokovic has been accidentally hit by a bottle while signing autographs after his 6-3 6-1 win against France's Corentin Moutet at the Italian Open.

"This is not being treated as a deliberate act, but as an accident. A boy was calling out to get an autograph and the bottle fell out of his bag. Novak has been taken to the medical centre."

Organisers later issued an update which read: "He has undergone the necessary checks and has already left the Foro Italico to return to his hotel. His condition is not a cause for concern."

In a post on X, Djokovic said he was "fine" and thanked fans for their support.

He said: "Thank you for the messages of concern. This was an accident and I am fine resting at the hotel with an ice pack. See you all on Sunday."

Despite Djokovic being broken in his first two service games, the Serb responded to Moutet's strong start to take the first set 6-4 from a position of 3-1 down.

The second set then saw Djokovic firmly on top as Moutet started to regularly rant to himself and towards his corner, receiving a warning from umpire Carlos Bernardes for kicking the net, and throwing his racket several times too - all either side of his phone alarm bizarrely going off.

In the end, Moutet could not get back into a positive frame of mind to compete, going down meekly in the second set 6-1.

Djokovic will next face Chile's Alejandro Tabilo in the third round.

"I haven't practised with a lefty in a while, so it took me a little bit of time to adjust to the different rotation on the balls," Djokovic said afterwards. "The first four games were quite bad for me. But then I played well.

"Corentin is a very talented player. He has great hands and very unpredictable. You don't know what what comes up next. So I had to stay focused, which I did. So it's a good opening match."

Elsewhere, former champion Alexander Zverev, the world No 3, defeated Aleksandar Vukic 6-0 6-4, while veteran Bulgarian Grigor Dimitrov swept past Yoshihito Nishioka 7-5 6-4 on Court 12.

Fifth seed Casper Ruud, though, suffered a shock defeat as Miomir Kecmanovic came from behind to win 0-6 6-4 6-4 - the Serb having recovered after leaving the court for a medical time-out late on in the first set.

No 11 seed Taylor Fritz ended the hopes of home wildcard Fabio Fognini as the American came through 6-3 6-4.

Ben Shelton maintained his impressive clay-court form as the 21-year-old American came from behind to beat Pavel Kotov 4-6 6-3 6-4 and reach the third round in Rome for the first time.

Portugal's Nuno Borges knocked out 15th seed Alexander Bublik 6-4 6-4 and Brazilian qualifier Thiago Monteiro was a 6-1 6-3 winner over Australian No 32 seed Jordan Thompson.

Luciano Darderi and qualifier Francesco Passaro delighted the home support with wins over seeds Mariano Navone and Tallon Griekspoor respectively.

www.skysports.com

Italian Open: Novak Djokovic struck by bottle after easing to third round past Corentin Moutet

Novak Djokovic accidentally struck by bottle on the head after beating Corentin Moutet in Rome; Alexander Zverev, Ben Shelton, Grigor Dimitrov also through; Miomir Kecmanovic stuns Casper Ruud watch continued coverage of the Italian Open live on Sky Sports Tennis
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NOVAK DJOKOVIC STUNNED AT ITALIAN OPEN AS ALEJANDRO TABILO SEALS GREATEST CAREER WIN: ‘I’M TRYING TO WAKE UP’​


Six-time Italian Open champion Novak Djokovic suffered a shock defeat to 29th seed Alejandro Tabilo on Sunday, who sealed the first top-10 win of his career in Rome.

The powerful Tabilo posted a sensational 6-2 6-3 victory, as Djokovic’s Roland-Garros preparations took another blow.

The Serbian great will not feature in the quarter-finals of the Italian Open for the first time since 2004.

After the match, Tabilo said it was a “crazy feeling” to beat the 24-time Grand Slam champion.

“I’m just looking around, trying to soak it all in and trying to process everything,” Tabilo said on court after his win. “I’m just trying to wake up right now.

“I was trying to keep my nerves in, keep swinging. Every time you feel closer to the end your arms start feeling a little tighter and start to swing shorter.

“I was trying not to think about it, just take it point-by-point. It’s crazy, I can’t believe what just happened!”

Tabilo got off to the perfect start in the Rome sunshine and sealed an outstanding double-break to take a rapid 4-0 lead in the opening set.

Almost stunned, Djokovic composed himself and reeled off a 40-15 game to reduce the deficit to three, but Tabilo hit back to move within one game of a first-set shock.

A dominant game from Djokovic followed as he held to love for 5-2, but 26-year-old Tabilo matched the out-of-sorts Serbian’s effort to seal an emphatic opening set in 31 minutes.

World No. 1 Djokovic moved 30-0 ahead in the first game of the second set, but in another fast start, Tabilo pegged the 36-year-old back and remarkably sealed his third break of the match to take total control of the tie.

Another hold to love kept Djokovic within touching distance of the impressive 26-year-old - who was playing a top-ranked player for the first time in his career - as the momentum began to swing into the US Open champion’s favour.

At 3-2, Djokovic piled the pressure on Tabilo’s serve but the Chilean narrowly held on to his two-game buffer as he edged towards a monumental victory.

On the hour mark, Djokovic battled from deuce to fire his second ace of the game beyond Tabilo to stay in the match, but the Canada-born player remained in control and two games from a spot in the round of 16.

Serving to stay in the set, Djokovic fell 30-0 behind and although he won the next two points to stay level, Tabilo sealed an incredible win to move into the next round.

He will play 16th seed Karen Khachanov for a spot in the quarter-final after the Russian comfortably beat Francisco Cerundolo in straight sets.

Elsewhere, Nuno Borges overcame Francesco Passaro, while Brazilian Thiago Monteiro moved into the last 16 after victory against Miomir Kecmanovic.

www.eurosport.com

Novak Djokovic stunned at Italian Open as Alejandro Tabilo seals greatest career win: ‘I’m trying to wake up’ - Eurosport

Six-time Italian Open champion Novak Djokovic suffered a shock defeat to 29th seed Alejandro Tabilo on Sunday, who sealed the first top-10 win of his career in
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Novak Djokovic says he felt hampered by the after-effects of being hit on the head by a bottle as he fell to a shock Italian Open defeat by Alejandro Tabilo.

The world number one was accidentally struck by the water bottle as he signed autographs following his second-round win over Corentin Moutet on Friday.

He struggled to find any rhythm against Tabilo on Sunday, with the Chilean needing just 67 minutes to win the third-round match 6-2 6-3.

The Serb initially made light of the incident when he jokingly wore a bicycle helmet to training on Saturday, but says he will now have further scans.


BBC
 
Djokovic wins on birthday to advance at Geneva Open

Novak Djokovic secured a win on his 37th birthday as he beat Germany's Yannick Hanfmann in a rain-interrupted match to move into the quarter-finals of the Geneva Open.

Djokovic, a 24-time Grand Slam winner, is playing in the ATP 250 tournament in Switzerland for the first time as preparation for the French Open and recorded a 6-3 6-3 victory.

It made him only the third player - after Jimmy Connors and Roger Federer - to win 1,100 matches on the ATP Tour.

At the end of the match, the crowd sang 'happy birthday' to Djokovic and he was also presented with a chocolate birthday cake by tournament officials.


BBC
 

Djokovic to play France's Herbert, Swiatek faces qualifier at French Open​


Novak Djokovic will begin his quest for a 25th Grand Slam crown against local hope Pierre-Hugues Herbert, while top-ranked Iga Swiatek kicks off her French Open title defence against a qualifier, following the draw on Thursday.

Djokovic has struggled in the first half of 2024 and is yet to win a title this year. The Serbian was knocked out of the Italian Open in the third round this month after suffering a freak head injury.

The world number one, who is competing in this week's Geneva Open, will be looking to put that disappointment behind him and get his season back on track in Paris, where he could meet Casper Ruud in the quarter-finals in a rematch of last year's final.

Unseeded record 14-times winner Rafa Nadal, who missed his favourite Grand Slam tournament due to injury last year, faces a tough test against Alexander Zverev in the first round after plummeting down the rankings during an extended spell on the sidelines.

Two-times Grand Slam champion and last year's losing semi-finalist Carlos Alcaraz begins against a qualifier, while newly-crowned Australian Open champion Jannik Sinner faces American Christopher Eubanks.

In the women's draw, defending champion and world number one Swiatek is in a hot streak of form after winning both the Madrid Open and Italian Open, and is favourite to claim her fourth title at Roland Garros.

However, the Pole could face a number of tough opponents in her quarter-final, including four-times Grand Slam champion Naomi Osaka, Miami Open winner Danielle Collins and Wimbledon champion Marketa Vondrousova.

World number two Aryna Sabalenka meets Erika Andreeva while Elena Rybakina, who reached the semi-finals in Madrid but was forced to pull out of Rome due to illness, takes on Belgium's Greet Minnen.

U.S. Open champion Coco Gauff, who reached the final of the French Open in 2022, will play a qualifier in the first round and could face Ons Jabeur in a mouth-watering quarter-final clash.

 
Djokovic reaches Geneva Open semi-finals

World number one Novak Djokovic beat Tallon Griekspoor to advance to the semi-finals of the Geneva Open on Thursday.

Djokovic accepted a wildcard to the ATP 250 tournament in the hope of building momentum for the French Open, which starts on Sunday.

The 37-year-old claimed a 7-5 6-1 victory against his Dutch opponent and will face Czech Tomas Machac in the last four.

Djokovic saved four sets points at 0-40 down in the 10th game before going on to break the world number 27 and then serve out the set.

He found his groove in the second set, which lasted just 25 minutes, breaking serve three times to become the oldest semi-finalist in Geneva tournament history.

"I thought that the first set could have gone his way easily because I think he was the better player for most of the first set," Djokovic said.

"I was lucky to find some really good serves and from that moment onwards really played some good solid tennis. The second set was really good."

The 24-time Grand Slam champion will head to Roland Garros after this tournament in the hope of defending his French Open crown.

The Serbian will start his campaign at the year's second Grand Slam against French wildcard Pierre-Hugues Herbert.

Djokovic is yet to win a trophy in 2024.


BBC
 
Novak Djokovic's final preparation for the French Open ended when he lost in the Geneva Open semi-finals to Czech world number 44 Tomas Machac.

World number one Djokovic, who turned 37 this week, was beaten 6-4 0-6 6-1.

The Serb has not reached a final in 2024 before starting the defence of his French Open crown.

The clay-court Grand Slam tournament starts at Roland Garros on Sunday.

Djokovic, who has won a men's record 24 major titles, entered Geneva to build up court time after a difficult start to the season by his standards.

After losing in the Australian Open semi-finals to Italy's Jannik Sinner, Djokovic was knocked out of Indian Wells at the last-32 stage.

He did reach the semi-finals in Monte Carlo at the start of the clay-court swing, but at his next outing at the Italian Open, Djokovic was accidentally hit on the head by a metallic water bottle after his opening win.

Two days later, he lost to 32nd-ranked Alejandro Tabilo of Chile.

Djokovic won his opening match in Geneva against Germany's Yannick Hanfmann, who beat Andy Murray in his opener, and defeated Dutchman Tallon Griekspoor.

But he again looked out-of-sorts against Machac and also showed signs of physical discomfort in a one-sided deciding set.

Djokovic will start his bid for a fourth French Open title on either Monday or Tuesday against a French wildcard Pierre Hugues-Herbert.


BBC
 
The three-time champion Novak Djokovic is into the second round at the French Open after beating Pierre-Hugues Herbert 6-4 7-6 (7-3) 6-4.
 

FRENCH OPEN 2024: NOVAK DJOKOVIC CRUISES INTO THIRD ROUND WITH STRAIGHT-SETS WIN OVER ROBERTO CARBALLES BAENA​


Novak Djokovic sailed into the third round of the French Open unscathed after a comfortable straight-sets victory over Roberto Carballes Baena.

The world No. 1 came through 6-4 6-1 6-2 on Court Philippe-Chatrier, and he was at his brilliant best at times as he continues to build his momentum after a stuttering start to the clay-court season.

A smash putaway teed up two set points and a Carballes Baena forehand into the net at 5-4 converted the first following a cagey first set where both players sought to play on the front foot, stepping inside the baseline and hitting their groundstrokes aggressively.

Djokovic continued his momentum into the second set with an immediate break in the second game, before securing a double-break - which he lost and then restored - at 4-0 and then 5-1.

He doubled his scoreboard advantage with ease, and started the third set as he had done the second, breaking instantaneously before securing another double-break to move up 4-1.

He closed out the match in just over two hours, serving it out and finishing off with another mistake from his opponent, slamming a final forehand into the net.

Djokovic will face the winner of Lorenzo Musetti and Gael Monfils in the next round.

www.eurosport.com

French Open 2024: Novak Djokovic cruises into third round with straight-sets win over Roberto Carballes Baena - Eurosport

Novak Djokovic sailed into the third round of the French Open unscathed after a comfortable straight-sets victory over Roberto Carballes Baena.
www.eurosport.com www.eurosport.com
 
GOAT of all time, man Serbia is a such a small country but brings so much in every field.
Something in their water even Tesla was a Serbian.
 
Djokovic moves through gears to earn another Paris win

Defending champion Novak Djokovic moved efficiently through the gears once again to beat Spain’s Roberto Carballes Baena and reach the French Open third round.

Serbia’s Djokovic, 37, cruised to a 6-4 6-1 6-2 victory on another rain-soaked day in Paris.

It ensured he has reached the last 32 at the clay-court Grand Slam for the 19th consecutive year.

Question marks surrounded the three-time champion and his form when he arrived at Roland Garros following a turbulent year.

Before the tournament Djokovic said he had “low expectations but high hopes” of success having not reached a final all season.


BBC
 
Djokovic beats Musetti in 3:07am finish in Paris

Novak Djokovic came through a five-set epic against Italy's Lorenzo Musetti at the French Open, which ended at 03:07 local time in Paris.

In a third-round contest that did not start until 22:37 on Saturday, towards the end of a rain-affected day at Roland Garros, the defending champion fought back from two sets to one down to win 7-5 6-7 (6-8) 2-6 6-3 6-0.

The 37-year-old from Serbia appeared to be on the brink of exiting the tournament at the hands of an inspired Musetti, the 30th seed.

But a rejuvenated Djokovic found fresh momentum midway through the fourth set, reeling off six consecutive breaks of serve to force - and then ease to victory in - a decider.

There was a warm embrace between the pair at the conclusion of the match, with Djokovic joining the Court Philippe Chatrier crowd in applauding his 22-year-old opponent in what was the latest finish in French Open history.

Victory in four hours and 29 minutes continued the world number one's bid for a fourth French Open crown and he will play 23rd seed Francisco Cerundolo of Argentina in the last 16.

"I don't want to get into it [the schedule]. I have my opinions but I think there are great things to talk about in this match today," said Djokovic.

"Both Lorenzo and my performances stand out so I don't want to be talking about the schedule. I think some things could have been handled a different way but there's also a beauty in winning a match [so late]."

As a teenager, Musetti pushed Djokovic close in the fourth round at Roland Garros in 2021 before retiring injured in the fifth set.

The 22-year-old started quickly on this occasion too, breaking serve in the third game of the match, although Djokovic responded immediately in kind and then outlasted his opponent in a lengthy rally to convert his first set point.

But Musetti fought back from 4-1 in the second set and saved a set point on Djokovic's serve in the tie-break on his way to levelling the match, before then breaking twice in the third set to move within one of victory.

At 2-2 in the fourth, while Musetti's level barely dropped, Djokovic drew on his many years of experience to find an extra gear and victory was wrapped up with a stunning crosscourt forehand return winner.

BBC
 
Djokovic comes through another French Open epic

Defending champion Novak Djokovic showed his supreme powers of recovery once again to come through a five-set marathon against Francisco Cerundolo and reach the French Open quarter-finals.

Serbia’s Djokovic, 37, looked hampered by injury before winning 6-1 5-7 3-6 7-5 6-3 against Argentine 23rd seed Cerundolo.

For the second time in three days, the 24-time major champion fought back from a two-sets-to-one deficit.

The fourth-round match with Cerundolo started about 4pm local time on Monday, little over 36 hours after his previous contest against Lorenzo Musetti finished at 3:07am on Sunday morning.

But Djokovic still had the mental and physical resilience to win another gruelling encounter lasting four hours and 39 minutes.

The top seed broke out into a beaming smile when he sealed victory, pointing to his chest and then to the court in celebration.


BBC
 
He's just about taken every record in the book. He has a way more balanced resume than any other player in history and he has created an entire generation of young players who will play just like him.

He is the GOAT and last year he buried any argument that he isn't.

That said though, the era of the big three and the GOAT is over now. 2 decades it's been. What a wild ride.

But in Alcaraz, Sinner and even younger players like Przmic the sport will carry on in good hands.
 
bones said:
He's just about taken every record in the book. He has a way more balanced resume than any other player in history and he has created an entire generation of young players who will play just like him.

He is the GOAT and last year he buried any argument that he isn't.

That said though, the era of the big three and the GOAT is over now. 2 decades it's been. What a wild ride.

But in Alcaraz, Sinner and even younger players like Przmic the sport will carry on in good hands.
Click to expand...
The Sinner - Alcaraz rivalry might just be tennis for the foreseeable future.

Too many others are mugs. Tsitsipas had his chance and Korda et al are so far behind. Rune has the most potential but going the Tomic way

A shame what happened to Thiem as he would, in his prime, have restricted Djokovic to 22 slams and probably the sole RG.
 

Djokovic 'will do best to return soon' after knee surgery​


Novak Djokovic says he will do his best to return to the court "as soon as possible" after undergoing surgery on a knee injury.

The 24-time Grand Slam champion withdrew from Wednesday's French Open quarter-final against Casper Ruud after tearing the medial meniscus in his right knee during a fourth-round victory over Francisco Cerundolo.

Recovery is likely to take at least three weeks, meaning the Serb could potentially miss Wimbledon, which starts on 1 July.

The injury will also impact the 37-year-old's preparations for the Olympic Games, which begin on 27 July in Paris.

"I’m still processing it all but I am happy to update you that the surgery went well," Djokovic wrote on X., external

"My love for this sport is strong and the desire to compete at the highest level is what keeps me going."

Djokovic is a seven-time Wimbledon champion and lost to Carlos Alcaraz in a five-set thriller in last year's final.

He has, however, never won Olympic gold, and has made no secret that adding that title was a key priority for him this year.

"I am so appreciative of the team of doctors who have been by my side as well as the overwhelming support I have received from my fans," Djokovic wrote alongside a picture of himself and his medical team.

"I’m going to do my best to be healthy and fit to return to the court as soon as possible."

Djokovic will also lose his status as the world number one with Italy's Jannik Sinner set to take his place.

Australian Open champion Sinner faces Spain's Carlos Alcaraz in the French Open semi-finals on Friday.

www.bbc.com

Novak Djokovic 'will do best to return soon' after undergoing knee surgery

Novak Djokovic says he will do his best to return to the court "as soon as possible" after undergoing surgery on a knee injury.
www.bbc.com
 

Novak Djokovic will compete at the Paris 2024 Olympics, the Olympic Committee of Serbia has announced.​

This summer will be his fifth Olympic appearance, having competed in every Games since 2008.

Djokovic, 37, won bronze at his first Olympics but has lost the third-place match twice in his three appearances since.

In April, he said Paris 2024 is "a priority" for him this year as he targets an elusive gold medal.

The Games will be Djokovic's first appearance in Paris since the Serbian withdrew from the French Open last month with a knee injury before his quarter-final.

The tennis events in Paris will be held at Roland Garros, the home of the French Open, between 27 July and 4 August.

Source: BBC
 

Djokovic to travel to Wimbledon but unsure on playing​

Novak Djokovic has decided to travel to Wimbledon and is due to arrive on Monday - but the seven-time champion does not yet know if he will be able to compete after undergoing knee surgery.

Serbia's Djokovic withdrew from the French Open after his fourth-round victory over Francisco Cerundolo, in which he tore the medial meniscus in his right knee.

The 37-year-old had surgery in Paris just 17 days ago, but wants to give himself the best possible chance of playing by practising at the All England Club.

Wimbledon, which starts on 1 July, seemed a long shot at the time, and his hopes of returning to Paris to try and win a first Olympic gold medal also appeared in the balance.

But since then Djokovic has posted two upbeat videos on Instagram.

The first showed him using an exercise bike and leg weight machine in the gym, and the second - posted on Thursday - followed him running, doing lunges and hitting a tentative serve.

“We keep building day by day,” was the message to his 14.6 million followers.

Source: BBC
 
Roger might be the happiest person lol. Looks like nole might touch him but will not break Fed's Wimbledon winning record. I don't see nole winning two more wimbs if he don't play this year
 
Djokovic will only play Wimbledon if he can 'fight for title'

Novak Djokovic says he will only play at this year's Wimbledon if he can "fight for the title", but his recovery from knee surgery is going "in the right direction".

The seven-time champion tore the medial meniscus in his right knee at the French Open and had surgery less than three weeks ago.

He intends to make a decision on whether he will play at this year's Championships, which start on 1 July, before the draw is made on Friday.

He trained for nearly two hours at Wimbledon on Monday, with a support bandage on his knee, and said afterwards that it was "great" to be back at the All England Club.


BBC
 
Back from injury, Novak Djokovic set to participate in Wimbledon 2024

The 24-time Grand Slam winner Novak Djokovic is set to participate in the singles of Wimbledon 2024. Djokovic had suffered an injury in his right knee and had pulled out from French Open 2024 ahead of the quarter-final clash. However, he had raised hopes of his return to action by sharing pictures of his training session from London. Djokovic had posted pictures of him training on grass with a kneecap in London ahead of the grass-court Grand Slam that starts from July 1.

The Serbian has not had the best year so far as he lost his No. 1 ranking to Jannik Sinner, had to pull out of the French Open and has not won any titles so far. Djokovic underwent surgery to treat the knee issue on June 6. This had cast doubts regarding his participation in the Wimbledon and the Paris Olympics, which will begin on July 26.

Djokovic to participate in Wimbledon 2024

The seven-time champion at the All England Club said that he would compete at Wimbledon only if he is 100 percent ready for the challenge.

"I didn't come here to play a few rounds. If I know I can play close to my maximum or at maximum, then I'll play. If not, then I'll give somebody else a chance to play," Djokovic told the BBC.

"Rehab is going in the right direction every single day, a few percent better and better. That's what's giving me hope and encouragement to keep going. I am taking things gradually. I'm not pushing myself 100% yet but I'm hoping that's going to come in the next few days."

Djokovic reached the final of Wimbledon last year only to lose to Carlos Alcaraz.

The official social media handle of Wimbledon also shared the projected quarter-finals as per the seedings.

Gentlemen's Singles - Projected Quarter-finals by Seeding

Sinner (1) vs Medvedev (5)
Alcaraz (3) vs Ruud (8)

Rublev (6) vs Zverev (4)
Hurkacz (7) vs Djokovic (2)#Wimbledon — Wimbledon (@Wimbledon) June 28, 2024

The No.1 ranked Sinner could face No. 5 ranked Daniil Medvedev. No.3 seeded Carlos Alcaraz might face 8th ranked Casper Ruud. 6th ranked Rublev could be up against 4th ranked Alexander Zverev. Djokovic might face Hubert Hurkacz.

SOURCE: https://www.indiatoday.in/sports/te...ticipate-in-wimbledon-2024-2559586-2024-06-28
 
Djokovic 'pain free' as he plays exhibition match

Novak Djokovic has said he is "pain free" after coming through an exhibition match against Daniil Medvedev prior to the start of Wimbledon next week.

The Serb tore the medial meniscus in his right knee at the French Open and had surgery three weeks ago which put his participation at the All England Club in doubt.

However Djokovic, wearing strapping on his knee, beat world number five Medvedev 6-3 6-4 on Friday and seems set to play at Wimbledon, which starts on 1 July.


BBC
 
Djokovic wins in first match since knee surgery

Novak Djokovic said he was "extremely glad with the way I felt and the way I played" as he won his first match since knee surgery to reach the second round at Wimbledon.

Djokovic, seeking to equal Roger Federer's men's record of eight singles titles at SW19, beat Vit Kopriva 6-1 6-2 6-2 under the roof on Centre Court.

The Serb, 37, had an operation on a torn medial meniscus on 5 June, having aggravated the problem during the French Open.

He will next play British wildcard Jacob Fearnley.


BBC
 
Novak Djokovic allowed to break strict Wimbledon rule for second straight match

Novak Djokovic has kept wearing his grey knee support despite knowing that it broke Wimbledon's strict clothing rules.

Djokovic wore a grey knee support during his straight-sets victory over Vit Kopriva on Tuesday afternoon. The seven-time Wimbledon champion feels he needs the extra support after undergoing surgery on a torn medial meniscus in his right knee, which saw him withdraw from the French Open earlier this year.

Yet Wimbledon's rules only permit players to wear white clothing - and medical supports are only exempt if the change in colour is "absolutely necessary". Djokovic was aware of the minor issue but has still not changed it for his second-round match against Britain's Jacob Fearnley on Centre Court on Thursday afternoon.

"I did check. I actually just met chairwoman just before walking onto the court," Djokovic said after his first-round win. "She gave me thumbs up, so it was okay. Of course, we did check in the days prior if we have a permission. We're trying to find a white one, trust me.

"I saw Frances Tiafoe played, he had actually a black colour sleeve. Grey, I think it's maybe slightly better towards the white. Yeah, I know it's not ideal. I like to go all white and I like to respect the rules. But I got the permission. I said to them that I will give our best for next match the white one."

Wimbledon's rules state: "Competitors must be dressed in suitable tennis attire that is almost entirely white and this applies from the point at which the player enters the court surround. White does not include off white or cream."

Players are only allowed a small trim of colour around the neckline and the cuff of the sleeves, with the same applying to caps, shorts, sweatbands and shoes. The rules do note that: "Medical supports and equipment should be white if possible but may be coloured if absolutely necessary."

The only exemption to the strict rule is for female players, who are permitted to wear "solid, mid/dark-coloured undershorts provided they are no longer than their shorts or skirt." That change to the rules was only implemented last year following concerns about female competitors playing during their period.

The rules are enforced, even for high-profile players: back in 2017 Venus Williams was forced to change her bra during a rain break against Elise Mertens after match after officials said the pink straps were not allowed.

www.mirror.co.uk

Novak Djokovic allowed to break strict Wimbledon rule for second straight match

Novak Djokovic has kept his grey knee support for his second-round match against Jacob Fearnley on Thursday despite being informed that it broke Wimbledon's rules
www.mirror.co.uk www.mirror.co.uk
 
Djokovic hails Fearnley after tough Wimbledon test

British wildcard Jacob Fearnley took a set off seven-time champion Novak Djokovic but fell short of creating a seismic shock in the Wimbledon second round.

Fearnley, a 22-year-old from Scotland, was beaten 6-3 6-4 5-7 7-5 by the Serb second seed in an increasingly-febrile atmosphere on Centre Court.

In May, the world number 277 finished his university studies in the United States.


BBC
 
Djokovic beats Rune - then accuses fans of 'disrespect'

Novak Djokovic swept aside Denmark's Holger Rune to reach his 15th quarter-final at Wimbledon - before accusing fans of disrespecting him.

Despite appearing to struggle with a stomach issue, Djokovic beat the 15th seed 6-3 6-4 6-2 on a rowdy Centre Court.

Rune received the backing of many in attendance, who cheered him along with drawn-out bellowing of his name which Djokovic angrily took to be booing.

"They were [disrespecting me]," Djokovic said.

"I don't accept it. I know they were cheering for Rune but that's an excuse to also boo.

"I've been on the tour for more than 20 years - trust me, I know all the tricks, I know how it works. You guys can't touch me."

The 37-year-old is going for an eighth Wimbledon title and record 25th Grand Slam overall.

He will next play Alex de Minaur, who booked his spot in the quarter-finals with a 6-2 6-4 4-6 6-3 win against France's Arthur Fils.


BBC
 
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