“Will Win 23+ Slams”: Olympic Silver Medalist Explains Why Novak Djokovic is Not Loved as Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal

Exceeding numbers tuned in to witness one of the greats of the game. Day 8 of the US Open was off to a thriller start, courtesy of the man of the hour, Novak Djokovic. On his quest for a calendar grand slam, the star man took on Jenson Brooksby in round 4 at the Flushing Meadows.

Right from the first swing, the enticing contest lived up to expectations. The American youngster had quite the start to the match, winning the 3 games of the bounce. Notably, even as Novak pulled one back, he couldn’t stop the 20-year-old from cruising towards victory in the first set. Even in disbelief, Brooksby had the crowd up on their feet, applauding his fearless tennis.

However, as the scoreline read 1-6 in the first set, the drama was just getting started. Despite being the World No. 1, he struggled to find the right momentum. From booing him through points to a roaring sound on his losses, Mardy Fish took to Twitter explaining why he thinks Novak isn’t a fan favorite.

Why so many haters for Novak Djokovic?

Over time, a crowd against him is something Novak has gotten used to. He has often faced a lack of support on the court and has admitted the same frequently. Even in his round of 4 clash, as Brooksby made life difficult for the top seed, the crowd added to his turmoil. However, former American tennis player, Mardy Fish, revealed what he thinks is the reason for the lack of support.

Taking to his social media, he made a bold claim, saying, “I feel like people don’t like Novak Djokovic because he beats their favorite player all the time. People love Roger and Rafa so much he’s never going to be well liked for that. Nole will finish with 23+ slams. Embrace him!” 

Despite the crowd and a first set that he’d best like to forget, Novak kick-started his resurrection in the game in the second set. This time, he won three games on the bounce, putting the crowd favorite under pressure. However, with a packed arena pushing him forward, the American youngster made a strong comeback, winning the fifth game after a fierce 20-minute battle.

With entertainment and drama in plenty already, anything is possible. The scoreline reads 1-6, 4-2 so far. Could Novak see his dreams of a Calendar Grand Slam crushed at the hands of a 20-year-old star?

Read more: Jenson Brooksby Joins Rafael Nadal and Others in Rare List to Breadstick Novak Djokovic at US Open 2021