There’s a hot topic that has got everyone talking. It’s Novak Djokovic, the Serbian tennis star who recently made history by winning his 24th Grand Slam at the US Open. But it’s not just the number of trophies he’s won that’s causing a stir; it’s the mystery surrounding why he keeps playing so intensely.
Some believe Djokovic is striving relentlessly to match the legendary status of tennis icons Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal. In contrast, respected American tennis legend Chris Evert offers a unique perspective that adds an intriguing twist to the ongoing discussion.
Chris Evert’s take on Novak Djokovic’s dominance
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In the world of tennis, talking about Novak Djokovic’s determination often leads to passionate arguments. Recently, Rennae Stubbs caused quite a stir by suggesting that Djokovic’s desire to outdo Federer and Nadal is all about wanting to be as famous as them. However, Chris Evert, known for her wisdom on and off the court, sees things differently.
“To me, it doesn’t really matter where his motivation to win comes from; the fact is, he’s passing the other two and should be admired for his achievements and his records,” Evert remarked in a tweet.
In the midst of this debate, a tennis journalist Sandra Harwitt chimed in, writing, “I think Rafa’s statement that Novak wanted the record more is insightful and honest. He shouldn’t be criticized for it. As you know personally, a champion reaches a place where tennis isn’t everything,” to which Chris Evert said, “Agree..”
To me, it doesn’t really matter where his motivation to win comes from, the fact is, he’s passing the other two and should be admired for his achievements and his records….🤷♀️💪 https://t.co/0uJMktE7FR
— Chris Evert (@ChrissieEvert) September 19, 2023
Evert simply agreed with this statement, showing that she understands that being a champion isn’t just about winning. It’s also about finding a balance between tennis and everything else in life.
Agree…👍 https://t.co/VhPTN1400k
— Chris Evert (@ChrissieEvert) September 19, 2023
Despite being a big Roger Federer fan, Evert acknowledged Djokovic’s impact on tennis. Chris Evert, however, isn’t the only one who had praise for the Serbian. A former Djokovic rival is all praises for him. In fact, his rival, who is a legend in his own right, calls the Serbian’s dominance “absurd”.
Praise from former rival seals Djokovic’s legacy: “Most reliable”
Even Djokovic’s former rival, Andy Roddick, had high praise for him. Roddick, who used to go head-to-head with Djokovic in his early years in tennis, called him “the most reliable player that we’ve ever had in the game”. The rivalry between Andy Roddick and Novak Djokovic was one of the most intense and competitive in tennis during the late 2000s and early 2010s. The two players met nine times on the ATP Tour, with Roddick leading the head-to-head record 5-4.
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However, Roddick is now all praises for the Serbian. He even appreciated his tenacity and how he would never dare to bet against Novak Djokovic. “The dominance of Novak and the way that he’s able to win this consistently is just absurd. I wouldn’t bet against him on any given day, on any surface, in any format,” he said.
In fact, after winning his fourth US Open championship, it was Roddick who presented the US Open trophy to Djokovic. It was a surreal moment seeing the two together in a tennis arena after so many years.
In tennis, rivalries are as common as powerful serves and quick volleys. Evert’s fair view adds a breath of freshness. Whether Djokovic aims to outdo others or just loves winning, one thing is certain: his journey embodies the passion and determination that makes tennis thrilling. What do you think?
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