Djokovic still ahead of new generation of tennis stars, says McEnroe
British tennis legend John McEnroe has declared that Serbian born Novak Djokovic is still ahead of the new generation of stars in the game.
McEnroe threw his support behind Djokovic following Jannik Sinner’s painful defeat at the French open insisting that the Serbian star remains a major force in men’s tennis despite growing competition from the younger generation.
Sinner’s campaign in Paris came to a disappointing end following a 6-2, 6’2, 5-7, 1-6, 1-6 loss to Manuel Cerundolo on Thursday at Roland Garros, thus ending his 30-match winning run which dates back to February.
The talented Italian had entered the tournament in strong form and was widely viewed as one of the favorites, but his exit has reignited discussions about the balance of power at the top of the ATP Tour.
While reacting to his loss, McEnroe noted that while Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz represent the future of the sport, Djokovic’s hunger and discipline continue to separate him from most rivals.
Speaking on TNT Sports, McEnroe said: “I think Djokovic’s level is pretty high,” said the seven-time major singles champion.
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“Explain to me how this guy does it when he doesn’t play at all between majors? He comes out and it’s as if he didn’t miss a beat.
“I know he doesn’t care much about the other tournaments anymore, but it feels like you have to play some of them, but for him, he doesn’t have to. He’s defying time.
He also picked Djokovic as the favourite to win the third round match against his 19-year-old Brazilian opponent Joao Fonseca.
“I’m picking Djokovic to win, but I think that’s one of the biggest moments of Fonseca’s career so far and will open him up,” said McEnroe.
