“Complete All-Around Player”: Novak Djokovic Lauds Stefanos Tsitsipas Ahead of French Open Semifinals Clash

World No.1 Novak Djokovic recently defeated Pablo Carreno Busta in the quarter-finals of the French Open 2020. The final scoreline was 4-6, 6-2, 6-3, 6-4. The Serbian legend will now face the young sensation and World No. 5 Stefanos Tsitsipas in the semi-finals of the tournament.

The Greek player has been enjoying a great form and has earned his spot in the semis of Roland Garros for the very first time. While speaking about Tsitsipas, Djokovic praised the 22-year-old for his consistency.

“I mean, he is one of the best players in the world… He has been playing the tennis of his life in the last 12 months, winning World Tour Finals, just being very consistent on all surfaces with his results,” acknowledged the World No.1.

Head-to-head, the two players have met on five occasions. Djokovic has the lead right now at 3-2. However, this is the first time they will face each other in a Grand Slam match. It will be intriguing to see whether Djokovic extends his lead or if Tsitsipas manages to make it even.

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‘He is a complete, all-around player’- Novak Djokovic on Stefanos Tsitsipas

While talking about Tsitsipas’ gameplay and style of play, Djokovic also discussed the Greek’s strength’s at length.

“He’s a big guy, big serve. He has weapons, obviously serve and forehand, his backhand. He produces a lot of spin… He can play aggressively. He can defend well because he moves well,” praised the 17-time Grand Slam winner.

Djokovic also spoke about how Tsitsipas’ father and Patrick Mouratoglou had helped him and appreciated Patrick’s academy for shaping youngsters like Tsitsipas.

“He’s really a complete, all-around player. I think he’s one of the hardworking guys out there. He has a great team, his father, Patrick Mouratoglou in his corner as well. Growing up in his academy, one of the best academies in the world. I know Patrick very well. Incredible professional,” said an enthusiastic Djokovic.

Djokovic also touched upon his semi-finals’ expectations and said that he wasn’t going to take it easy. The 33-year-old expects to play his best on the court.

“I expect a really tough, tough match, tough challenge for both of us. Semifinals of a Grand Slam, I mean, this is what you expect. You expect to play a Top-5, Top-10 player. I’m hopefully going to be able to feel my best and play my best,” concluded Djokovic.

The path ahead won’t be easy for the Serb. Even if manages to beat Tsitsipas, he will most likely face 12-time French Open winner Rafael Nadal in the finals of the French Open 2020.

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