“Truly Exceptional”: Roger Federer Lauds Novak Djokovic’s Incredible 2021 Season in Grand Slams

Serbian World No.1 Novak Djokovic had a 27-match winning streak in Grand Slam tournaments in 2021. Also, he was one match away from claiming the Calendar Slam in men’s singles for the first time since 1969. However, as fate would have it, he lost in the US Open 2021 final to Daniil Medvedev in straight sets. Despite the loss, Nole had one of the greatest seasons on the Tour in recent memory. Significantly, Roger Federer agreed on that fact.

First of all, the Swiss maestro gave wonderful news to tennis fans with hopes for a 2022 return on the Tour. Afterwards, he opened on what Djokovic did in Grand Slam tournaments throughout the year.

The 40-year-old also claimed that the Calendar Slam is possible in the future. But as of now, Rod Laver’s 52-year-old record remains intact on the men’s circuit.

Read More: “I’m Jealous”: Andy Roddick Reveals Reason Behind His Poor Performance Against Roger Federer

Roger Federer on Novak Djokovic’s 2021 season

Even though Novak Djokovic missed out on making history in New York, he received praises from across the world. Recently, his fellow ‘Big 3’ player Roger Federer also joined the list of his admirers.

Apart from hailing Djokovic, Federer wants Rod Laver’s version of the final, who saw the Serbian play live. But ultimately, he was impressed by the current World No.1’s achievement.

“I have to ask also what Laver thought because he was sitting first row watching Novak play. But what Novak did this year was, of course, truly exceptional,” Federer said.

Additionally, the Swiss maestro reflected on the possibilities of Calendar Slam options in the future. Federer also added a player needs everything to attain his achievement.

“I think it is possible that it’s going to happen again. We saw it with Novak, myself and Rafa that we come extremely close. But, you know, just doing it, I think you need a bit of luck. You need perseverance, strength.”

“You need everything you know. And that’s why I think it’s going to be hard. But it’s possible,” Federer said.

Also Read: Is Roger Federer Playing Laver Cup 2021?

When will Federer and Djokovic return on the tennis tour?

Due to the need for a third surgery on his knee, Federer called off the 2021 season after his Wimbledon loss. However, he recently stated that he is optimistic about his 2022 return.

Conversely, Djokovic mentioned that he isn’t sure where he would play next on the Tour following his US Open 2021 loss. But fans hope to see him soon on the ATP Tour, probably at the ATP Finals in Turin.

Who will be the first player to win 21 Grand Slams? Federer, Nadal, or Djokovic?

Watch this story: Novak Djokovic’s Racquet Smashes in Frustrated Meltdown Moments