‘Surefire Way to Lose’- Novak Djokovic’s Super-Human Transformation Forces Former American Rival to Make an Ultimate Declaration

Winning against Novak Djokovic is a big task in itself. Having 56% of wins in their bouts is another feat altogether. However, Andy Roddick has achieved it in his lifetime. Although their rivalry is hardly ever discussed, they have played many great matches. Since Roddick has won more of their matches, one would think Roddick could possibly beat Djokovic today. However, the American player does not have the same line of thought.

Before he retired, Roddick was not a fan of the Serbian player. Now, Roddick lauds the Djoker every chance he can. In the comments of his Twitter post, he recalled being harsh towards Djokovic and how he found himself humbled later. After that move, the 2003 US Open champion has nothing but praise for the Serb.

Andy Roddick cannot use old tactics to overpower Novak Djokovic

When Djokovic was new on the tennis scene, Djokovic was an up-and-coming player. While their bouts used to be intense, Roddick had one particular strategy in order to dominate the Serb. But noting his progress in his physical abilities over the years, the American player reassures that he would lose if he employed the same tactics. 

“Novak’s progression, just on the physical side, has been unlike anything I’ve seen in pro sports. When I used to match up against Djokovic – and I had a solid record against him – I wanted to keep him out there, I wanted to extend rallies. Now, that’s a surefire way to lose.”

Additionally, Roddick also commended Djokovic for taking care of his health. The 23-time Grand Slam champion often used to fall sick during the tour. But now it happens rarely, if ever. Much of the change came about because of his diet. The American former player regarded the Serb’s professionalism and grit, saying, “The way that he’s taken care of his body, not just from a training standpoint, but from a dietary standpoint, has left no stone unturned… He took a weakness and turned it into one of the biggest strengths that we’ve seen in professional tennis.”

Impressed with the immense change, the Hot Rod has nothing but praise for the player. He also stated that it would be strange when Djokovic leaves the sport, given his sheer dominance over the decades. However, funnily enough, Roddick’s opinions on the Djoker weren’t always so welcoming and appreciative – especially when he was active on the circuit.

READ MORE: ‘Pete Sampras would like a minute..’- Novak Djokovic at the eye of the storm as Andy Roddick debunks extravagant claim about the Serb’s serving prowess

How the Djoker made the A-Rod of Tennis eat his words

In 2008, Roddick had set up a head-to-head with the Djoker in the quarterfinals of the US Open. A young Djokovic dealt with injury and health issues often. This fact made Roddick overconfident, and he said that he could beat the Serb easily. His words only served to fire up Djokovic, who came into the next match and demolished his American opponent in four sets.

Overconfident back then, the 2003 US Open champion doesn’t believe he has the skills to beat Djokovic. Although he leads 5-4 in their matches, beating the Serbinator has become an extremely difficult task. 

WATCH THIS STORY: Australian Open: Novak Djokovic’s Epic Finals Against Rafael Nadal, Andy Murray, Dominic Thiem, and others