24-time GS Champion Novak Djokovic has revealed how his fellow player and greatest rival Roger Federer had helped him in organizing his schedule in order to peak at the majors.
The World #1 also analyzed what separates him from other players in the return department and highlighted the importance of balance between “speed, anticipation and timing”. Before his retirement, Djokovic has played against Roger Federer over a 14-year-period and leads their series 27-23.
The Serbian downed #3 seed Daniil Medvedev in straight sets in the final of US Open earlier this month to seal his fourth title at the season-ending major at Flushing Meadows to extend his Grand Slam count to 24 titles for a men’s record.
Talking to seven-time major singles champion and ESPN commentator John McEnroe, Djokovic highlighted the role of his eternal rivals Nadal and Federer in the development of his career while divulging what he took from the Swiss maestro specifically.
“He was one of the first players to really take the scheduling, preparation to a different level. I was inspired by that and I was making notes with my team and I was taking a lot from that scheduling. And observing him and his team and how he has gone about it. So thanks Roger.”
The 36-year-old was also quizzed by former American #1 McEnroe what he thinks sets him apart from others on his return of serve skill.
“I wouldn’t say there’s one thing, one secret. Obviously, dependent on the surface you’re playing, I like to change my position. But I would say if I have to highlight a few things that I’m constantly thinking about when it comes to [the] return – is the split step,” said Djokovic.
“I think the split step really determines the right timing of anticipating the opponents serve. And of course I try to do my homework before going onto the court, knowing who am I playing against, what are his patterns.
“But I think more than that, really it’s about timing because sometimes – speed goes against you in returns, if you are too quick. That’s what happens with me sometimes, right? That I want to anticipate too early, then the ball hits me and I’m not hitting it in front. So the right balance between the speed, anticipation, and the timing – makes the formula.
“When I’m facing one of the big servers, I like to back up a bit. But I think it was – as weird as this sounds – a lack of confidence in my return. (Laughs) Yeah, I know, I know. But I did have lack of confidence in my return in some periods, so then I was backing up to give myself a bit more time.”