Prost Draws Parallel Between Verstappen-Hamilton F1 Rivalry & Djokovic-Tsitsipas French Open Final

The championship battle between Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton this season is drawing plaudits for its intensity. Although Verstappen took the opening salvo in the first six races, Hamilton seems like he is yet to reveal his cards.

Recently, four-time world champion Alain Prost appeared on the F1 Nation podcast. In conversation with his former teammate Damon Hill, he gave his opinion on the battle at the top, while likening it to the French Open

Prost likens Verstappen-Hamilton battle to Djokovic-Tsitsipas matchup

This Sunday, the world witnessed an exciting French Open final where veteran Novak Djokovic took on Greek upstart Stefanos Tsitsipas. Although the Greek went two sets up, he lost to the Serbian in a five-set thriller 7-6 (8-6), 6-2, 3-6, 2-6, 4-6. Despite the match lasting over four hours, Tsitsipas couldn’t outlast the experienced Djokovic in Roland Garros.

Appearing on the F1 Nation podcast, Prost used that match to compare the title challenge this season. Although the Frenchman believes Verstappen is better than ever, he pointed out how the experience of winning a title helps Hamilton.

He said, “If you compare, for example Max and Lewis. It’s very difficult to compare a driver who is trying to get the first championship compared to a guy who knows how to prepare his race and manage his season. 

“Look at what happened yesterday with Djokovic and Tsitsipas. It’s the first time, it’s very difficult, in terms of pressure. As soon as Max will win a championship, I think he can be a fantastic driver.”

READ MORE: Would Lewis Hamilton Be Regarded Differently Had He Not Won the 2008 World Championship?

Prost: Lewis Hamilton is “a very complete driver”

Prost believes Hamilton’s ability to stay motivated is incredible. In addition, he also believes he is the complete driver in terms of his skills.

The Frenchman said, “What Lewis is doing is like the top drivers, he is exceptional. He still gets high motivation. I can understand this year is very important for him because it’s the year he could overtake Michael. But what he’s shown at the beginning of the year was really something; to prove he is one of the best.

“Lewis is a very complete driver. He has all the tools, he’s unbelievable.”

With the title fight heading to Le Castellet, Hamilton will look to reclaim his championship lead in the French Grand Prix. Although Red Bull look stronger than ever, Mercedes have a better track record to boast about.

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