Novak Djokovic Talks About The ‘Beatles’ Semifinal Lineup at French Open 2019

His smooth victory over, Alexander Zverev in the quarterfinals of the French Open 2019 curtailed Novak Djokovic’s journey to his second ‘Nole Slam’ honour to two match wins. During the press conference today, Novak Djokovic associated the World Number four, Dominic Thiem to Ringo Starr from the Beatles.

Since the Roland-Garros 2012, Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal, and Roger Federer are all in the semifinals in Paris. They are associated with John Lennon, Paul McCartney and George Harrison from the Beatles.

The Serb was asked whether Thiem is the tennis equivalent of Ringo Starr (who was a less known artist from the Beatles), and the spot was initially taken by Andy Murray. “I’m sure some people would debate if Ringo Starr was the less famous. Some people liked him the most,” Novak Djokovic said. “I don’t know. That’s what my parents tell me”. 

The semifinal lineup in Paris incorporates the top four men of tennis and it’s happening for the first time since the Australian Open 2012 semi-finals. Which certainly reflects the quality of men’s tennis and their dominance and consistency on the tour all over the years. Also, Novak Djokovic was glad to hear about Andy Murray’s return to professional tennis.

“I think it’s great to have the top four players competing in the semi-finals on the biggest event because it brings even more rivalry, more importance to those matches and to the tournament in general. I want to say that I’m really pleased to see that (Murray’s) coming back to the court. He’s going to play doubles and hopefully singles very soon after” the 32-year-old continued.

He continued to speak about the next generation clay courter, Dominic Thiem and his recent improvisations in his tennis. “Dominic is deservedly where he is, one of the top four guys, especially on clay. That’s where he’s playing his best tennis. He’s got that tremendous power in his game, especially with forehand and serve. I think backhand also has improved a lot in the last couple of years,” Novak Djokovic added.

The reigning finalist of Roland-Garros 2019, Dominic Thiem will be taking on Novak Djokovic in tomorrow’s semifinal on the Parisian red dirt and give his best to snap the Serb’s 21-match winning streak at Grand Slams.