Former tennis player Mats Wilander believes that even if Novak Djokovic wins the US Open this month, he may “never win another Grand Slam”.
After winning at Melbourne, Roland Garros, and Wimbledon this year, the World No. 1 has a chance to complete a remarkable Calendar Slam if he wins at Flushing Meadows.
Furthermore, Djokovic would surpass both Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal in terms of major event victories — the three are now tied on 20 each.
Rod Laver was the last guy to complete a Calendar Slam in 1969, and Djokovic is the hopeful one to do so again this year, with neither Federer nor Nadal able to compete due to injuries.
However, Wilander believes that the rise of a new generation of players in the game would make it difficult for the current rankings leader to win another Grand Slam following this one.
Wilander makes bold Djokovic claim
Mat Wilander said, “I would not be surprised if he wins the US Open and then never wins another Grand Slam.”
“The 21-thing is a heavy burden, and the calendar Grand Slam is a pleasure trip for him, the chance to do something that he thought he’d never have the opportunity to do.”
“They are playing big games, they are taking risks, they are serving big, they play aggressive, they are physically bigger – though they don’t move as well and are not as mentally as strong – but I think it is going to be difficult for him.”
Djokovic faced Holger Rune in the second round of the US Open, and it didn’t come without a scare from the youngster, who won a second set tie-break at Arthur Ashe Stadium.
The Dane was unable to keep that level throughout the match, and Djokovic won 6-1, 6-7, 6-2, 6-1, albeit the veteran confessed it was a “not ideal” start to his tournament.
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