Novak Djokovic is in the twilight of his legendary career, and his pursuit of a historic 25th Grand Slam title has become a battle against Father Time and a strong new generation. After reaching the Australian Open final, beating World No. 1 Jannik Sinner earlier this year, and several disappointing results, including a recent heat-affected loss in Cincinnati, the 39-year-old is now focused on making a comeback at the US Open.
Many question whether Djokovic can win another major, and former pro Patrick McEnroe gave his take, comparing it to Serena Williams.
Patrick McEnroe Doubts Novak Djokovic Can Win Another Grand Slam, Compares Him to Serena Williams
According to McEnroe, the answer might be no, but that doesn’t make the journey any less incredible to witness. In a recent Fox 5 interview with Natasha Verma, McEnroe candidly said that he doesn’t see the Serb winning a 25th Grand Slam title. However, he was quick to emphasize that for a great like Djokovic, there is no requirement for it either.
“I don’t [think he will win another]. But I’m going to have a heck of a lot of fun watching him try again because, to me, what he’s done in the last couple of years is equally as impressive as what he did when he was dominating, winning 24 majors,” McEnroe said.
To add more on Djokovic’s current mindset, McEnroe pointed to Williams and her comeback to the court at age 44. After nearly four years of retirement, Williams returned to action in doubles at Queen’s Club and Berlin, followed by a singles appearance at Wimbledon. She then reunited with Venus Williams for another doubles appearance in Cincinnati just two days ago. However, she also got knocked out in the first round in the last three events.
Reflecting on the 23-time Grand Slam champion, McEnroe highlighted the reality of competing at that age.
“You know, she hasn’t played for four and a half years at a competitive level,” McEnroe said. “She doesn’t need to prove anything to anyone, including herself. But maybe she does. Maybe she wants to prove I can still go out there. I think that’s why Djokovic is still doing it to prove to himself to his fans.”
The US Open is set to begin its main draw on August 30. And just in time for his campaign in Flushing Meadows, a feature-length documentary, “Novak Djokovic: The Wolf in Winter,” has been released on Amazon Prime Video.
Directed by Jason Hehir, who also directed “The Last Dance,” which is based on Michael Jordan’s life and career, the movie gives fans a closer look at Djokovic’s childhood in war-torn Serbia and what continues to drive him to compete at 39.
