Tsitsipas hails Djokovic as ‘one of the greatest’

AFP | London

The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com

Stefanos Tsitsipas hailed Novak Djokovic as “one of the greatest players tennis has seen” ahead of the Serb’s assault on a sixth Wimbledon title and record-equalling 20th Grand Slam crown.

World number four Tsitsipas enjoyed and then endured a close-up view of Djokovic’s powers when he gave up a two sets lead to losing the final of the French Open two weeks ago.

Victory in Paris allowed Djokovic to become the first man in over half a century to win all four majors twice. Now, with the 2021 Australian and French Open titles under his belt, he is halfway to becoming only the third man, and first since Rod Laver in 1969, to complete a calendar Grand Slam. “He’s a complete player. He has the potential to do it,” said Tsitsipas yesterday. “Obviously we’re there to try and kind of put a stop to that dream of his. It’s going to be difficult.

“Me personally, I find it very challenging playing against him. I think he’s one of the greatest players tennis has seen.” Tsitsipas is seen as a Wimbledon champion-in-waiting should Djokovic and eight-time winner Roger Federer falter. However, his record on grass remains mediocre although that can be attributed to lack of exposure more than any particular weaknesses in his game.