In an interview during the Mubadala World Tennis Championship in Abu Dhabi, Novak Djokovic commented on the current and future situation of tennis, where on one side the Big 3 continue to dominate – Novak, Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer – and on the other, a lot of younger players coming up.
‘I am happy as a tennis player to see a new generation of players coming up and winning big titles like Alexander Zverev, Karen Khachanov, Dominic Thiem and Chung Hyeon as well,‘ said Djokovic, who lost to Zverev in the ATP Finals championship clash.
‘There is lot of quality in next generation players. And this is what you want to see in sport – young players showing their courage and stepping up. As a fan of the game, it is good to see that. I am kind of expecting them to win Grand Slams soon.
And Zverev is the leader of the upcoming stars. He won three Master series events. They have shown they can challenge top three players for titles. So far Top 3 guys have been able to keep their positions for many years but the face of tennis is changing.
You have more challenges from younger generation and it is good. As a fan, I salute that change.’ Djokovic also spoke about his current shape: ‘I am playing good tennis in last six months. I hope to transfer the same success to next season.
It was a great year to experience with highs and lows. I had injuries and surgeries, and to come back and win championships is truly remarkable.’ On the Australian Open introducing the fifth tie-break rule, Djokovic concluded: ‘It is good.
Players suffer a lot from marathon fifth setters. The tie-breaker or super tie-breaker will allow players to recuperate for next match.’ ALSO READ: Rafael Nadal: Worse players than David Ferrer won a Grand Slam title
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